WDAY/FacebookIt’s always a poignant moment when a revered political figure dies; the sort of individual who inspires you to vote and take an interest in the intricacies of democracy.
Duke the Great Pyrenees dog was one such politician, serving as the mayor of Cormorant Village, Minnesota, for four faithful terms. And his passing will no doubt leave a sadness no amount of sticks can soothe.
Good ol Mayor Duke died today and I’m sad pic.twitter.com/Pmo6PtNIL7
— cheery carl™ (@spoopynoodIes) February 22, 2019
In 2014, the gentle giant became the very first mayor of Cormorant. He went on to serve his constituents with the loyalty of his kind, even if he was a little prone to napping during town meetings.
Mayor Duke led parades, appeared on billboards and represented his town with a big grin and a friendly disposition.
The sweet boy also had a significant media presence beyond his own hometown, appearing in magazines such National Geographic and Scholastic. He also made television appearances, welcomed as an honoured guest on Steve Harvey’s talk show.
Our beloved mayor Duke went to doggie heaven today. He will be greatly missed. we will have a memorial for him in march…
Posted by Mayor Duke of Cormorant Village on Thursday, 21 February 2019
Whether campaigning at local schools or attending the World Dog Awards, Duke upheld his campaign promises to be a Good Boy, bringing a cuddlier, kinder brand of politics.
However, old age comes to us all and last year Mayor Duke retired due to ill health. As reported by DL Online, Duke dedicated plenty of his well-deserved retirement to munching his favorite treats, which included cheeseburgers and beef jerky.
Like many former politicians, Duke also found the time to reflect on his years in office with a book, entitled, Meet Mayor Duke.
This is Duke. He was first elected mayor of Cormorant as a write-in candidate in 2014. In 2016, literally everyone in the village voted for him. Duke passed away last week at the age of 13. He served with great honor and fluffy passion, and has been awarded the very rare 15/10 pic.twitter.com/uwPtQ7gFYW
— WeRateDogs™ (@dog_rates) February 26, 2019
Dedicated Duke passed away on February 21 at the grand old age of 13, having reportedly suffered from arthritis and lyme disease. His owners also suspected he had been struck by a car a couple of years back.
Duke’s adoptive mother, announced the sad news through Duke’s popular Facebook page:
He will be greatly missed. We will have a memorial for him in March or April at the Cormorant town hall.
Thanks to all who express their condolences it means a lot of hard times like this. Sincerely, Karen and Dave.
Those who have been inspired by Duke’s incredible rise from humble farm dog to admired politician have taken to social media to pay their respects.
One person tweeted:
A big “Rest in Power” to Duke, mayor of Cormorant Village, Minnesota. One of our last bastions of hope, snuffed out far too soon.
Another remarked:
While he sat atop Cormorant Village’s vast political machine, Mayor Duke’s tenure was without scandal or corruption and he will be missed.
Rest easy Mayor Duke. Your life has left an indelible paw print on the town you loved, and your human friends will always be proud of you.
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Jules studied English Literature with Creative Writing at Lancaster University before earning her masters in International Relations at Leiden University in The Netherlands (Hoi!). She then trained as a journalist through News Associates in Manchester. Jules has previously worked as a mental health blogger, copywriter and freelancer for various publications.