BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — Five animals are vying to become Beardsley Zoo’s newest mayor – and it's your time to vote.
Officials announced the candidates Tuesday for the Bridgeport-based zoo’s highest-ranking animal ambassador. The winner would replace incumbent mayor Rhubard, the two-toed sloth.
Rhubard, whose campaign slogan last year was “If not today, tomorrow,” spent more of his term hanging out in trees and promoting the health benefits of life in the slow lane, the zoo said.
“Once again, the race for Mayor of Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is highly contested as each candidate attempts to win the support of voters,” said Zoo Director Gregg Dancho. “Unlike other elections, we encourage people to vote early, vote often, and stuff the ballot box.”
The candidates for the 2023 race are:
Tahu, the North American River Otter
A mother to four playful otter pups, Rahu says that wrangling her six-month-old off-spring shows that she can keep her head above water and run the zoo. Her campaign slogan is “Ready to Dive In!”
Alli, the Eastern Box Turtle
Alli claims to be the most grounded of all the candidates who can block out distractions and focus on the job thanks to her hinged shell. Her campaign slogan is “Don’t Box Yourself In: Vote for Alli!”
Major Tom, the Narragansett Turkey
A father of 13 poults this year, Major Tom says he is the best choice to speak for the zoo because he can stop all fowl play. His motto is “Let’s Talk Turkey!”
Ella, the Black and Gold Howler monkey
The loudest of all monkeys, Ella makes herself be heard. She has long been known for her ability to reach out and make connections and her unique treetop-home gives her a high vantage point of the zoo. Her campaign slogan is “Climbing to New Heights!”
Daisy the Prairie Dog
Daisy’s tight-knit coterie of supporters said that life in a prairie dog town makes her the perfect candidate for mayor. Her slogan is “There’s Light at the End of the Tunnel.”
The election will be decided by online votes. The public can vote for the candidate of their choice by making a $1 donation for each vote here. Voting begins on Tuesday, Oct. 31. Polls close at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 8.
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