In the USA, the execution of a squirrel became the cause of an election scandal

The American media and social networks are actively discussing the withdrawal of the popular homemade peanut protein from the owner and the euthanasia of the animal in New York state.

According to the Associated Press, Peanut owner Jack Longo picked up a squirrel seven years ago as a cub after the squirrel's mother was hit by a car. Later, the man created an animal account on the social network, which was subscribed to by more than 500 thousand users. On Wednesday, employees of the New York State Department of Conservation seized Peanuts and Fred, a raccoon who lived with Longo, after which both animals were euthanized in order to prevent rabies.

The Department of Nature Protection referred to repeated complaints about the illegal keeping of wild animals. According to AP, it is forbidden in the state to keep animals removed from nature without a special license.

"The state, which exceeded its authority, kidnapped and executed an orphan squirrel," Elon Musk commented on the incident on the social network X.

In another post, the entrepreneur also expressed the opinion that the state should not interfere in the personal affairs of animal owners.

At the same time, supporters of the US Republican Party have turned the issue of squirrel euthanasia into a political one due to the fact that New York state is traditionally considered a stronghold of the Democratic Party. So, actor Sean Maguire criticized the Democratic government of the state for not paying enough attention to murderers and robbers. The son of presidential candidate Donald Trump Jr., in turn, accused the Democrats of destroying domestic squirrels instead of fighting illegal migration to the United States.

"Maybe killing Peanuts will be a catalyst for real change... in the priorities of our government," he said.

The euthanasia of squirrels has already begun to turn into another element of Donald Trump's campaign on the eve of the presidential election. In particular, Musk said that the candidate would save all squirrels, and pro-republican political commentator Robbie Starbuck promised to win the election for Peanuts.

US presidential elections will be held on November 5. The Democratic Party will be represented by Vice President Kamala Harris, the Republican Party will be represented by former American leader Donald Trump, RIA Novosti reminds.