>IHF
>good morning Ralph, so it begins
so it does
AI Overview
In February 2026, North Carolina GOPSenator Thom Tillis hosted "Doggi Gras" an annual bipartisan dog costume parade through the Senate halls, drawing both affection for the pets and political backlash
. The event occurred during a partial Department of Homeland Security shutdown, causing critics to label it a "bad look" for Congress.
Context: The event is a long-standing tradition initiated by Sen. Tillis in 2017 to foster better relationships between staff and lawmakers.
The 2026 Controversy: Critics, including GOP Representative Anna Paulina Luna, questioned the timing of the parade, as it took place on day 12 of a partial government shutdown.
Response: Sen. Tillis dismissed the criticism, advising critics to "grow up" and stating that lawmakers can "walk and chew gum" by balancing work with lighthearted events.
Details: The event featured dogs in costumes and beads, with many congressional staffers in attendance.
Background: The parade is a recurring event on Capitol Hill, sometimes referred to as "Howl-o-ween" in previous years