West Virginia Senator Jim Justice is already making waves in Washington, and not just because of his legislative agenda. The Senator’s English bulldog, “Babydog,” has become something of a political sensation.

Once banned from stepping paws on the floor due to chamber rules restricting access to service animals only, Babydog is nevertheless finding ways to leave her mark in D.C.

Most recently, the dog made headlines after “testifying,” with a little help from Sen. Justice holding the brolic pup up to the mic during an official Senate hearing.

At an April 10 session of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, the senator paused proceedings to introduce his beloved bulldog to the panel.

“She humanizes us,” Sen. Justice told the committee as he cradled the staunch, almost-grinning bulldog. “She makes us absolutely get off our pedestals … she makes you smile.”

Babydog’s message, as relayed by the senator, was simple: “She loves everybody. She truly does.”

Sen. Justice’s remarks were met with good-natured approval, and Babydog’s “testimony” was formally entered into the record without objection.

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It’s not Babydog’s first brush with political stardom.

The canine has long served as a crowd-pleasing sidekick during Sen. Justice’s tenure as governor and famously appeared at the 2024 Republican National Convention, per The Guardian, even earning her own bobblehead.

She has also been involved in some viral political theater, including a viral moment in 2022 when the senator hoisted her up during a State of the State address and told actress Bette Midler to “kiss her hiney” after Midler critiqued Sen. Justice’s tenure.

Still, her presence isn’t always welcome in every corner of the Capitol.

During an orientation last November, Sen. Justice was reminded that Senate floor rules prohibit non-service animals, according to a report from Axios. He later acknowledged the restriction towards his bulldog in a statement, noting he was aware of the rule and had no intention of violating it. “They do not have to worry about Babydog on the Senate floor,” he said at the time.

Axios later added an editorial correction saying Sen. Justice’s comment was obviously in jest. However, none of the viral attention, positive or negative, has kept Babydog away from the Hill.

Sen. Shelley Moore Capito recently posted a cheerful photo on X of herself, Sen. Justice, and Babydog on the Capitol steps with the caption: “A great meeting on the entire West Virginia senate delegation. We make a good team… all 3 of us!”

With her growing social media following and continued presence at high-profile political meetings, Babydog’s influence in D.C. seems to be more than a gimmick; it’s becoming part of the West Virginia Senator’s brand.

While beloved for their charm and looks, English bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed often exploited by black-market breeders due to their high market value. These dogs often require highly expensive and specialized medical care throughout their comparably short lives. Organizations like Lone Star Bulldog Rescue highlight the importance of adopting rather than buying bulldogs, offering a second chance to dogs in need – and ensuring these wrinkly companions get the love and medical support they truly deserve.