President Claudia Sheinbaum received the viral duck Merlín and the animal's owners at the National Palace on June 22, 2026 [1].

The meeting highlights the administration's effort to connect with internet trends while framing social support as a core tenet of government humanism.

During the daily mañanera press conference in Mexico City, Sheinbaum hosted the duck and three family members [2]. The president used the occasion to recognize the family's efforts as merchants and promised government assistance to improve their quality of life [3].

Merlín has gained significant popularity online, transforming the duck into a viral phenomenon. Sheinbaum said the meeting served as an act of humanism and social support [3].

Carla, the owner of the duck, spoke about the family's background during the visit. "Somos una familia trabajadora," she said [4].

The administration's decision to bring a viral animal into the presidential morning briefing follows a pattern of utilizing popular culture to humanize the executive office. By linking the viral fame of the duck to the economic reality of the owners, the president sought to bridge the gap between digital trends and tangible social aid [3].

The event took place in the morning at the Palacio Nacional, where the president frequently addresses the public and the press [1]. The presence of the animal and the subsequent pledge of aid were intended to showcase a responsive government that acknowledges the struggles of working families [3].

“"Somos una familia trabajadora"”

This interaction demonstrates the Mexican presidency's strategy of integrating viral social media moments into official government communication. By transforming a lighthearted internet trend into a formal pledge of social support, the administration attempts to project an image of accessibility and empathy toward the working class.