NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — New York politics goes to the dogs on Sunday, Jan. 26, when Simon the Basset Cattle Dog will be sworn is as the second Honorary Dog Mayor of New York City.
Simon, known as @UpperWestSimon by 24,000 followers on Instagram, succeeds @SallyLongDog, who has served with distinction for the past two years.
"Sally leaves behind an incredible legacy of activism, and earnestness -- and lethargy," quipped Dog Mayor organizer Stephen Calabria. That's included making a number of personal appearances including at a Petco Love mega adoption event in Union Square.
The vote was a March madness-style race that ended with Simon winning on a double technicality.
"He came back into the race after a previous candidate dropped out, and then in the final, Bertram the Pomeranian bow-wowed out of the race, because he had something of an issue with the crypto community," said Calabria.
The issue included apparent bot-votes that could have forced a recount of some 22,000 votes, something Bert's person didn't want to put anyone through. So, Simon was named Dog Mayor, and Bert, Deputy Dog Mayor.
Then, less than two weeks later, came the sad news that Bert, who was an elderly dog, had died. Calabria says they looked at the line of succession and determined that Pepper the Mini Chocolate Dachshund would take the spot. As for Bertie, Calabria says the Dog Mayor community will never stop loving him, and he will always be their Deputy Mayor.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams is among the dignitaries expected to attend the InDOGuration which takes place at 2 p.m. on Sunday on the steps of City Hall. The public is welcome to attend. No ticket required.