Some “pawsitive” news is coming out of Natchez with the election of the city’s first pet mayor.
After weeks of spirited campaigning and a last-minute surge at the polls, voters chose beloved black lab Mary Frances as their K-9 commander. Heading into Election Day, Mary Frances used the trail to showcase her experience as a greeter. She used years of greeting patrons at the popular downtown shop, Darby’s, to build name recognition heading into her first run at the mayor’s office.
Mary Frances ousted fellow “pawlitician” Roni by 321 votes. Human Mayor Dan Gibson announced the results during a press conference earlier this week, citing the election helping raise money to benefit the Natchez-Adams County Humane Society, Hoofbeats and PawPrints Rescue, and Spay/Neuter Natchez.
“In Natchez, we know how to blend fun, tradition, and heart in everything we do,” Gibson said. “The Pet Mayor election brought joy to our city while supporting vital causes, and it speaks to the bright future we’re building together.”
While this was Mary Frances’ first shot at becoming an elected official, her handler, Dennis Short, said she has been serving as an “unofficial Pet Mayor” for over a decade.
“Mary Frances has been patrolling downtown Natchez for 12 years as the self-proclaimed unofficial Pet Mayor, and now, thanks to her wonderful supporters, it’s official,” Short said.
Mary Frances used both in-state and out-of-state resources to get a leg up on fellow candidates. Her campaign manager, Darby Short, shared from High Point, N.C., how the campaign helped promote Natchez far beyond local borders.
“I’ve spent the week wearing my ‘Mary Frances for Natchez Pet Mayor’ button at market in High Point, answering questions about what Natchez Pet Mayor is – and of course, bragging about how wonderful Natchez is as a destination,” Darby said.
Along with Mary Frances’ historic win, a full slate of Pet City Officials was announced. Roni will serve as Chief of PAWlice, Dart as FUR Chief, and Maggie May McCabe as Director of PAWblic Works and Recreation. The Board of PAWldermen will be made up of Clover, Pacho, Hal, Poppy, and Oreo.
The winners will officially be sworn into office during a public collaring ceremony on Saturday, May 10, at 9:30 a.m. at city hall.
