Street Cat Crowned “Mayor of Istanbul” in Viral Online Vote

Simit, the charismatic tabby who “won” the online vote for Mayor of Istanbul.

Istanbul has a new, furry leader—and the city seems to approve. A street cat has been crowned the “Mayor of Istanbul” after winning a viral online vote that captured the hearts of social media users across Turkey and beyond.

The feline, a charismatic tabby known simply as Simit, has long been a fixture of Istanbul’s bustling streets. Locals describe Simit as friendly, fearless, and endlessly curious, often seen lounging on café tables, weaving between pedestrians, or perched atop historic walls with a regal air. In many ways, the cat embodies the spirit of the city: independent, charming, and a little mischievous.

The online vote began as a lighthearted campaign organized by a local animal advocacy group, intended to raise awareness about Istanbul’s stray cat population and the challenges these animals face. To everyone’s surprise, Simit quickly surged ahead in the polls, receiving tens of thousands of votes within hours. Social media users flooded the platforms with photos, videos, and memes celebrating the tabby’s “victory,” joking that Simit’s first order of business would be to demand more fish cafes and sunny rooftops.

Local residents have embraced the feline mayor wholeheartedly. Small businesses placed “Simit Approved” stickers in their windows, cafés dedicated special treats in his honor, and tourists flocked to the streets to snap photos of the now-famous cat. Many people joked that Istanbul had never seen a mayor so universally beloved—or so committed to napping in public spaces.

Experts on animal behavior note that cats like Simit often develop strong bonds with communities, navigating busy streets while remaining remarkably attuned to human activity. Simit’s symbolic election has drawn attention to Istanbul’s unique relationship with its stray cat population, highlighting the city’s long-standing culture of coexisting with and caring for these animals.

Despite the humorous nature of the vote, organizers stress the deeper message. The campaign has sparked discussions about animal welfare, community involvement, and the role that public affection can play in protecting urban wildlife. Simit, it seems, has become both a symbol of joy and a reminder of Istanbul’s commitment to its four-legged citizens.

From the crowded streets of Beyoğlu to the historic lanes of Sultanahmet, Simit’s reign as the “Mayor of Istanbul” has brought smiles, laughter, and a viral sense of pride to locals and online audiences alike. While Simit may not actually be able to sign city documents or pass legislation, there’s no denying that the little tabby has already captured the heart of a city—and the world.