The US presidential election has taken an unexpected turn with the sudden euthanization of Peanut, a popular pet squirrel, becoming a campaign talking point. The animal was seized by New York wildlife officials on October 30 and put down two days later, sparking outrage among Republicans and social media users. Senator JD Vance claimed President Donald Trump is "fired up" about Peanut's death, while other supporters of the president have criticized the Democratic-led government for allegedly prioritizing illegal immigrants over innocent animals. However, experts argue that the decision to euthanize Peanut was likely made due to concerns about public health and safety.

Source: https://www.wionews.com/world/us-elections-2024-how-peanut-the-squirrel-became-latest-campaign-talking-point-773132