California Governor Candidate Brings 500 Kg Bear To Rally

The bear, named "Tag," weighs about 1,100 pounds (500 kilograms) and was born in captivity and trained to appear in films and television series.

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally. John Cox is campaigning on the theme of "beauty and the beast" -- the "beauty" being current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, known for his primped appearance in the state that is home to Hollywood.  Cox has cast himself as the "beast" who will shake up politics in the most populous US state, where a brown bear features prominently on its flag. "The beautiful politicians have failed California," Cox said during a rally in Sacramento, the state capital. "We need big, beastly changes to save it. I'll cut taxes, make California more affordable and shake up Sacramento."