Idyllwild, CA – There’s a small town in Southern California that hasn’t had a human mayor in over 10 years. Instead, the non-incorporated town boasts three generations of sweet-tempered dog politicians. Its most recent elected official, Mayor Max III, is a handsome golden retriever who assists his citizens by joining community events and mixers, and by generally being adorable.
This tradition of four-legged mayors began in 2012 with Max I, a 12-year-old golden. The Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends (ARF) sponsored the first mayoral election of its kind, and Max I won against 14 other dogs and a couple of cats to claim the title. While he enjoyed a brief period of success, sadly Max I passed away just nine months into office. This tragedy prompted ARF to approve a mayoral transition plan, and Max II was brought into office. He worked alongside Deputy Mayor Mikey and Deputy Mayor Mitzi, also goldens, and the trio became known as “the Mayors of Idyllwild.”
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