Thailand’s internet sensation, Moo Deng, a female pygmy hippo, has stirred social media with her prediction that Donald Trump will win over Kamala Harris in the U.S. presidential election. This baby hippo, whose name means “bouncy pork” in Thai, has won hearts globally for her playful antics on TikTok and Instagram, spawning a wave of memes, merchandise, and new business ventures.

Viral Video Sparks Online Buzz

On Monday, the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi released a video of Moo Deng choosing between two fruit platters, each labeled with the names of Trump and Harris. Eagerly consuming the Trump-labeled treat, Moo Deng’s choice quickly went viral, as the election between Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris remains highly competitive.

 Social Media Praises Moo Deng’s Charm

While polls point to a close race, many viewers found Moo Deng’s playful prediction a welcome distraction from the often intense election coverage. One Instagram user noted, “This is better than most election news in the U.S. Bless Moo Deng and all at Khao Kheow Zoo.”

U.S. Fans Adore the Thai Hippo

Moo Deng’s popularity extends to the U.S., where she won 93% of the votes in an informal poll on “The Tonight Show,” far outpacing Harris and Trump. Her fame has, however, attracted criticism from animal rights advocates, with PETA recently questioning the ethics of her captivity. Thailand has responded, affirming that Moo Deng and other animals in the zoo receive quality care.

Pygmy Hippos: An Endangered Species

Native to West Africa, pygmy hippos are critically endangered, with only about 2,500 estimated to remain. Conservationists hope that Moo Deng’s stardom may highlight the importance of wildlife preservation.