Town of Ashland launches pet election to celebrate animals after drunk raccoon incident

HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- The town of Ashland in Hanover County has launched "Pawsitive Politics," a pet election, to continue spreading the joy of animals following the now-viral incident when a raccoon ransacked an Ashland ABC store.

In the morning on Monday, Dec. 8, the town of Ashland launched "Pawsitive Politics," a pet election calling on residents to nominate dogs and cats "who bring joy -- not chaos" to the town's community.

This follows an incident at an Ashland ABC store that garnered international attention when a raccoon broke in, ransacked the store, became intoxicated, and was found passed out in the bathroom by a local animal control officer.

Through the election, residents can nominate their dogs and cats to serve as Dog Mayor and Cat Police Chief, two honorary positions that the town said are designed to celebrate community spirit and bring neighbors together during the winter season.

According to the town of Ashland, all pet candidates must live within the town of Ashland limits, and the winners will serve a one-year term, helping foster community pride, representing Ashland at events, and spreading good cheer throughout the year.

Nominations are now open on EngageAshlandVA until Dec. 15. Residents nominating their pets must submit a campaign portrait and answer a few fun, candidate-style questions — including their pet’s “official platform” and campaign slogan.

The town said finalists will be posted on EngageAshlandVA from Dec. 17 through Dec. 31, when residents and non-residents can cast their votes for one Dog Mayor and one Cat Police Chief.

Election results will reportedly be announced on Jan. 5, 2026. The newly elected Dog Mayor and Cat Police Chief will appear on the town’s website, social media pages, and at upcoming community events.

"We’ve been in the news lately for a raccoon who took public engagement a little too literally," said Martha J. Miller, assistant town manager of external operations. "So we thought: why not keep the fun going with an election that highlights the responsible furry citizens of Ashland? This is a joyful way to remind everyone that our pets are part of what makes this community special."

"This is exactly the kind of lighthearted, community-building fun Ashland is known for," Miller added. "After the raccoon incident brought us so many laughs, we’re excited to shine the spotlight on the pets who bring joy to our neighborhoods every day."

You can nominate your pet or learn more at Engage.AshlandVA.gov.