Story perspectives

White House Shares Viral Raccoon Meme, Sparks Criticism

7/26/2026

Summary

Jimothy Goes Viral

Jimothy the raccoon went viral after a July 14 Instagram video that hit 8 million views.
Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck announced a Jimothy-themed art contest while the raccoon served as a mascot for the Mariners and a limited-edition Jimothy Julius beer that sold out in Massachusetts.
Health officials warned residents not to feed Jimothy because he can carry disease and noted that veterinary expert Marcie Logsdon says he likely has short-spine syndrome.

Summary

White House Meme

The White House X account posted Jimothy in a red “Trump was right about everything” hat.
The post drew over 1.6 million views, 22,000 hearts and criticism for “killing memes” and “cringe”.
Spokeswoman Taylor Rogers declined comment on The Daily Beast’s query about officially using an animal meme.
OPM director Scott Kupor said the stunt raised merit-based hiring concerns, referencing the Trump administration’s anti-diversity rule.

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Jimothy Goes Viral

Jimothy the raccoon went viral after a July 14 Instagram video that hit 8 million views.
Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck announced a Jimothy-themed art contest while the raccoon served as a mascot for the Mariners and a limited-edition Jimothy Julius beer that sold out in Massachusetts.
Health officials warned residents not to feed Jimothy because he can carry disease and noted that veterinary expert Marcie Logsdon says he likely has short-spine syndrome.

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