Cats in Politics: The Rise of the “Childless Cat Ladies” Movement
The resurgence of cats in politics has taken center stage once again, with New York pet owners and animal welfare supporters rallying behind the Harris-Walz campaign to defeat former President Donald Trump. The catalyst for this movement was a resurfaced Fox News interview in which former President Trump’s 2024 running mate, JD Vance, made controversial comments about “childless cat ladies” running the country.
The backlash against Vance’s remarks has been swift, with cat owners and advocates speaking out against his divisive rhetoric. BriAnne Wills, the creator of “Girls and Their Cats,” a project celebrating women and their feline companions, expressed her dismay at Vance’s comments and highlighted the power of “childless cat ladies” in shaping society.
Jenny Pierson, a rescue cat owner and founding executive director of the Cat Museum of New York City, also criticized Vance’s remarks, pointing out the Democratic Party’s support for family rights and reproductive freedom. Pierson noted a growing energy among animal welfare groups in support of the Harris-Walz campaign.
Meanwhile, New York creatives have capitalized on the “childless cat lady” trend by creating political merchandise supporting the Harris-Walz campaign. From shirts to stickers, these items are not only raising awareness but also generating funds for the campaign.
Cat ladies and allies are also organizing on a national level, hosting online calls to strategize and fundraise for the Harris-Walz campaign. RaeShanda Lias-Lockhart, a Kentucky business owner and cat owner, recently hosted a successful fundraiser for the campaign, raising over $380,000 with the support of over 28,000 attendees.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the influence of “cat ladies” in shaping the future of the country is becoming increasingly apparent. With the upcoming presidential election on the horizon, the role of cats in politics is sure to remain a hot topic of discussion.
