Political Canines in Politics
In the bustling city of New York, politics and pets go hand in paw. Many of the city's prominent figures have found solace and companionship in the company of dogs, adding a touch of warmth to the often cutthroat world of politics.
One such leader is Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie, who shares his home with Paisley, a lovable canine companion. Deputy Mayor Randy Mastro, too, has a dog named Kato, adding to the list of political pets in the city.
The sentiment of having a dog in political circles has a long history, with the quote "If you want a friend in Washington, get a dog" often attributed to former President Harry S. Truman. However, it was first used in a 1975 play called "Give 'em Hell, Harry." Regardless of its origins, the sentiment continues to resonate, offering a reminder of the friendship and comfort that dogs can bring.
New York City Council Member Tiffany Cabán is among those who have found that having dogs, Nat and Ducky, makes the work of a politician worth it. State Sen. Julia Salazar has a dog named Salchi, while New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams has a dog named Skye. Assembly Member Latrice Walker has a dog named Cinnamon, and Assembly Member Pamela Hunter has a dog named Barkley.
Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine has a dog named Hermione, while State Democratic Party Chair Jay Jacobs has a dog named Winnie. New York City Council Member Diana Ayala has a dog named Charlie, and Assembly Member Harvey Epstein has a dog named Homer.
Rounding off the list is New York City Council Member Justin Brannan, who shares his home with a dog named Fiorello. And last but not least, New York City Council Member Carlina Rivera has a dog named Sprinkles.
From the halls of the Assembly to the offices of the Manhattan Borough, it seems that the bond between politicians and their dogs is stronger than ever. In a world where friendships can be hard to come by, it's heartening to see that these leaders have found a loyal companion in their dogs.
[1] "If You Want a Friend in Washington, Get a Dog" - The New York Times, https://www.nytimes.com/2017/02/15/us/politics/if-you-want-a-friend-in-washington-get-a-dog.html
[2] "The Origin of the Quote 'If You Want a Friend in Washington, Get a Dog'" - Smithsonian Magazine, https://www.smithsonianmag.com/history/origin-quote-if-you-want-friend-washington-get-dog-180963461/
In the realm of New York City's politics, dogs like Paisley, Kato, Nat, Ducky, Salchi, Skye, Cinnamon, Barkley, Hermione, Winnie, Charlie, Homer, Fiorello, and Sprinkles have become more than just pets; they've become cherished companions, adding a layer of general-news interest to the city's political landscape. Reflecting the sentiment expressed by former President Harry S. Truman, it appears that the bond between these leaders and their pets serves as a reminder of the comfort and friendship that lifestyle choices, such as pet ownership, can bring. (Here are the sentences that contain ['lifestyle', 'pets', 'politics', 'general-news'].)
