07/19/2026
A Gentle Paw from a Gentlecat – Guiding Salem Forward
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
"Rupert" Giles Purry is pleased to announce his candidacy for "Dog" Mayor of Salem.
Running on a platform of honor, respect, historic preservation, responsible treat distribution, and catnip mice for all constituents, Giles believes his calm demeanor, steady leadership, and welcoming purr are exactly what Salem deserves.
Less interested in partisan politics than in bringing people together, Giles has spent the past year proving that kindness is not only good manners, it's good governance.
Originally discovered living among Salem's historic landmarks at the Witch Trials Memorial and Old Burying Point Cemetery, Giles was found peacefully napping atop the Giles Corey Memorial by Black Cat Tours owner and guide Daniel Fury.
Recognizing that every great city deserves an equally great cat, Giles was welcomed to Black Cat Curiosity Shoppe while efforts were made to locate his family.
As fate, and perhaps Salem itself, would have it, Black Cat became his forever home.
Now residing in Salem's historic McIntire District and proudly serving alongside his fellow members of the Black Cat Board of Purrectors, Giles remains deeply engaged with the daily life of the community. From greeting visitors to conducting regular neighborhood inspections from strategically selected windowsills, he maintains a close paw on the pulse of our fair city.
Support for Giles continues to grow among residents, visitors, and those fortunate enough to have experienced his bipartisan approach to friendship.
His campaign is proudly endorsed by the Black Cat Crew and managed by his longtime friend and trusted advisor, The Stupendous Sir Peter Wingfield (Pa. R. Rot., M.D.), who offered the following statement upon today's announcement:
"Every dog has its day. But today… is for the cats.”
The Giles Purry Campaign will be announcing additional policy initiatives in the coming weeks, including expanded public napping opportunities, increased accessibility to premium treats, and a comprehensive strategy to ensure every visitor to Salem leaves having made at least one new friend.
Feel free to follow us here for campaign updates!
Leadership isn't about being the loudest voice in the room.
Sometimes, it's simply about making everyone feel welcome.
Dog Mayor of Salem is a fundraising campaign for Salem Main Streets - an amazing organization that brings us some of the best events of the year, including things like Salem's annual tree lighting. Please support them with your Votes For Giles!
LINK IN THE COMMENTS!
Mr. Purry hopes you will also support his neighbor and colleague, Steve The Spider!
