A social media star, a beloved squirrel named ‘Peanut,’ has become the center of a controversy that’s dividing the internet and sparking political debate. Peanut, who had gained fame for his antics on TikTok and Instagram, was euthanized by New York state authorities after being seized from his owner, Mark Longo, who had been attempting to get Peanut certified as an educational animal.
Longo, who housed Peanut and a raccoon named ‘Fred’ at his home and animal sanctuary in rural Pine City, claims he was targeted by the state and that the animals were unfairly seized and euthanized. He has vowed to take action against the government, stating that the decision “won’t go unheard.”
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the Chemung County Health Department, however, justified the euthanization, claiming that both animals had to be tested for rabies after Peanut bit someone involved in the investigation. The state authorities argued that keeping wild animals in a home without a proper license is illegal and potentially unsafe.
The incident has ignited a wave of criticism, with some prominent figures taking to social media to express their outrage. Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and a vocal supporter of former US President Donald Trump, condemned the government’s actions, stating: “Government overreach kidnapped an orphan squirrel and executed him” and “The government should leave people and their animals alone.”
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who had previously campaigned as an independent before endorsing Trump, also weighed in on the controversy, writing on social media: “Are these the same guys that killed my whale and my bear? And, what happened to the head? Just asking for a friend.”
The Trump campaign has also entered the fray, denying any viral comment from Musk on the matter and using the incident to criticize New York state authorities for their perceived leniency towards illegal immigration. “New York authorities… put more effort into finding an eliminating a squirrel, who was innocent by all accounts, than they do to control the unchecked illegal immigrants who have flooded into their state. If Peanut could have told them that he was from Mexico, they would have sent him on his way and given him a hotel room and a $500 gift card to Buddy Squirrel. Instead, he was taken from his family. Very sad, and a complete waste of resources!” the Trump campaign stated.
The incident has raised questions about the balance between animal welfare and government regulations, prompting public debate about the appropriate response to wildlife ownership and the role of social media in influencing public opinion. With both sides presenting their arguments, the controversy surrounding Peanut’s death is likely to continue, adding another layer to the complex political landscape in the United States.
