Thursday’s Senate Energy Committee hearing took an unexpected turn when West Virginia Senator Jim Justice brought a very special guest—his beloved English bulldog, Babydog. Not only was the pup present, but she had her own microphone, ready to “testify,” prompting laughter and surprise in the chamber.
Committee Chairman Senator Mike Lee welcomed the gesture with good humor, saying,“Thank you, Senator Justice. Babydog’s testimony will be admitted into the record without objection.”
The remark sparked chuckles throughout the room, as Babydog panted enthusiastically into her mic—seemingly embracing the limelight.
WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:
.@BabyDogJustice’s testimony will be admitted into the record without objection. pic.twitter.com/5RkG64IN5P
— Senate Energy GOP (@EnergyGOP) April 10, 2025
“She Humanises Us”: Justice Shares Babydog’s Impact
Senator Justice took a moment to reflect on how Babydog has helped bring heart to political proceedings.
“This little has done something that I think is really important to all of us. All of us on this committee … all of us across this city. She humanises us,” he said.
Justice shared the story of how Babydog unexpectedly became part of his public image during his time as West Virginia’s governor. “I didn’t intend in any way to be hauling a bulldog around. No way on Earth,” he admitted. “We never owned a bulldog before. She’s not supposed to like everybody, but she does. And with that being said, how can a message be any better?”
In a heartfelt close, he added:
“She would say just this: If you’re rich or poor, or a kid or an adult, or, God forbid, a Republican or a Democrat, she still loves you.”
More Than Just a Mascot: Babydog’s Pandemic-Era Legacy
This isn’t Babydog’s first moment in the spotlight. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she became the face of West Virginia’s “Do It for Babydog” vaccine lottery campaign. Her presence helped drive up vaccination numbers in the state and endeared her to citizens far beyond political circles.
Babydog’s Capitol cameo may have started as a light-hearted moment, but it ended up reminding everyone in the chamber of the power of empathy—and wagging tails—to bring people together.
