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WILTON MANORS, Fla. — Move over, politicians. Wilton Manors is looking for a candidate with four legs, a wagging tail and, presumably, a strong commitment to treats.
The city is now seeking candidates for the position of the city’s first ever Dog Mayor, providing dogs living in the city an opportunity to run for office and serve two years in office as the mayor of the city. Applications are open until Sunday, September 27, according to the City of Wilton Manors.
This weird election is part of the Fur the People series 'Bark The vote' that was initiated by the city in light of its dog-loving community. The city started the program last month in a campaign kickoff that took place in Colohatchee Dog Park which allowed residents to learn about the election and how to submit their dogs for the Office of Dog Mayor.
And, yes, there are certain requirements. Nominees need to be fully vaccinated and must exhibit excellent social skills, according to the election requirements stated by the city. Also, owners of those nominees need to be 18 years old and reside in the city.
The city has planned additional events to give the candidates a chance to meet voters, and presumably one another.
The next major event is “Bark the Vote & Costume Parade,” scheduled for October 22 at Colohatchee Dog Park. The city says the event will allow canine candidates to show off their personalities, campaign spirit and costumes.
The kickoff event earlier this month included free treats for dogs, refreshments for their humans and free access to the dog park.
In other words: perhaps the most competitive campaign perk in Broward County this fall is a biscuit. Don't I wish I was a dog for this one.
The Dog Mayor race comes during an actual municipal election year in Wilton Manors.
The city's regular municipal election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, with the offices of mayor and two city commissioners on the ballot, along with a proposed charter amendment concerning how extraordinary vacancies would be filled.
But unlike the human candidates, the dogs aren't expected to attend commission meetings, debate zoning ordinances or discuss the city's budget.
Their campaign platform may be considerably simpler:
More walks.
More parks.
More treats.
And perhaps fewer squirrels.
For residents interested in putting their pup into the race, the city is accepting Dog Mayor applications until September 27.
Wilton Manors has spent decades building an identity around community, culture and a willingness to do things a little differently.
Now, apparently, that includes democracy’s oldest tradition:
Putting a dog on the ballot.
