By Jennifer Williams
April 11, 2025
WASHINGTON — West Virginia Senator Jim Justice made a splash on Capitol Hill yesterday when he appeared before the Senate Energy Committee accompanied by his English bulldog, Babydog, who has become a social media sensation in recent years.
Justice, who transitioned from governor to senator in January, voiced strong support for President Trump’s recent executive order aimed at expanding domestic energy production, particularly in coal-rich states like West Virginia.
“This executive order is exactly what our energy workers have been waiting for,” Justice told the committee. “West Virginia is sitting on an energy goldmine that’s been hamstrung by excessive regulation for too long.”
The senator’s comments come as the administration pushes to roll back environmental restrictions on fossil fuel production implemented during previous administrations. The executive order, signed last week, directs federal agencies to expedite permits for energy projects and reduce regulatory obstacles.
Throughout the hearing, Babydog remained quietly at Justice’s side, occasionally drawing smiles from committee members. The bulldog became an internet sensation during Justice’s governorship when she appeared at COVID-19 briefings and state events, accumulating millions of views on social media platforms.
“I think Babydog knows as well as anyone that energy independence means security for American families,” Justice quipped, drawing laughter from those present.
Environmental groups have criticized the executive order, arguing it undermines climate goals and clean energy initiatives. However, Justice maintained that the policy strikes the right balance between economic development and environmental stewardship.
“We can have both jobs and clean air,” Justice insisted. “West Virginia has been making strides in both directions, and this order gives us the flexibility we need.”
As Justice concluded his testimony, several senators approached to greet Babydog, who has become something of an unofficial mascot for the Mountain State.
Justice, who served as West Virginia’s governor from 2017 until his Senate election, has consistently advocated for policies supporting the state’s traditional coal and natural gas industries while in office.
