It is with unbearable sadness and many tears that the Hamster For President campaign announces the death of it's 2000 nominee for president, the beloved Diddley Squat IV. He passed away most unexpectedly at 10:02 am, 19 June 2002, at the age of 27 months. He suffered a stroke less than an hour before his death.

The world will never be the same without Diddley. His life, like that of every hamster, was far too short, yet it seemed he was with us forever. No hamster can claim his accomplishments. He brought the Hamster For President cause to millions via the internet, radio, and the print media. But even more importantly, he brought love and wisdom to all who touched his life, even for the briefest of moments.

The world has lost one of its greatest wonders, and we have all lost a true and faithful friend. Diddley has left us to join his precious wife Ebony and ten infant children, whose companionship he sadly missed for the last months of his life. Rest in peace, Diddley Squat. You will be remembered and loved - always.

The campaign staff has chosen an interim candidate, the youthful and energetic Potus, who will represent the campaign until its 2004 political convention in Washington. Potus will be properly introduced in the next notice placed on this page. In the meantime, Potus and the whole election committe asks that all observe a moment of silence in remembrance of the incredible Diddley Squat. Thank you.