New York's viral squirrel scandal shakes up political landscape

The squirrel, named Peanut, was very popular online, with over 600,000 people following her Instagram profile. The animal's owner, Mark Longo, set up accounts for the squirrel when she was still very young.

Peanut's mother died in a car accident, but the little squirrel adapted very well to her new environment. For 7 years, Americans followed the story of this rodent that had adapted to living among humans—until now.

According to "The Guardian," the squirrel's case appeared before the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. A report was filed with the office stating that the animal might be a threat to bystanders due to potential rabies transmission.

Department employees took the matter extremely seriously. Officials seized the squirrel and a raccoon named Fred from the owner. Peanut did not want to leave Mark Longo and bit one of the state officials.

Ultimately, the Department of Environmental Conservation decided that the animals should be euthanized to determine if they were carrying rabies. For Americans, this is a huge blow.

Fans of the squirrel are raising money for a lawsuit that Mark Longo may file against the Department of Environmental Conservation. The case has also taken on a political dimension.

According to Republicans, the Democrats who govern New York State are responsible for the squirrel's death. Journalists from "The Guardian" believe the case will undoubtedly affect the upcoming election, though the extent is unclear.

Longo himself bid farewell to the squirrel in an emotional post.

Breakfast will never be the same without you. I love you mousey - wrote the animal's owner on Instagram.