Overview
- The White House’s official X account shared an edited photo of the Ballard raccoon known as Jimothy with a pro‑Trump hat and the slogan “Trump Was Right About Everything.”
- The post quickly drew heavy attention online, with reporting noting roughly 1.3 million views, and it prompted praise from supporters and sharp backlash from critics.
- Seattle residents and other users publicly objected to the administration’s use of Jimothy, saying the viral animal is a local symbol and should not be used for partisan messaging.
- Veterinarians and wildlife officials continue to warn people not to feed, handle, or crowd the raccoon and note there is no formal veterinary diagnosis for the unusual appearance attributed by some to short‑spine syndrome.
- The episode follows days of intense fandom, merchandise and fundraising for Jimothy, and it raises the risk that further commercialization or politicization will increase harm to the animal and strain local wildlife management.