Texas GOP Convention Features Live Elephant, Draws Mixed Reactions

A live elephant named Paige was featured at the 2026 Republican Party of Texas Convention held from June 11-13 in Houston, Texas. The elephant wore a banner stating, "UNITY DRIVES VICTORY" alongside the campaign logo for Governor Greg Abbott, who shared a video of the elephant on social media. While the Texas GOP highlighted the elephant as a symbol of unity, the event took a turn when Paige urinated on the floor, which the Texas Democratic Party used to criticize the Republican Party. Some attendees viewed the incident as memorable, while others raised concerns about animal cruelty. Comments from various attendees reflected differing opinions, with some expressing enjoyment and others criticizing the use of the elephant at the event.