A Dog For A Mayor? A California Town Has One, And His Name Is Max!

A dog for a mayor, you say? That sounds like actually something taken straight out of a storybook or a kids’ cartoon. But it’s actually possible in real life! Just visit the town of Idyllwild in California, and you’ll see Max.

Maximus Mueller II or Max is an eight-year-old Golden Retriever who has been working as a mayor of the said California town for a very long time. He may not know a lot of things about politics and policy-making, but he definitely knows how to brighten up people’s day.

Mayor from the get-go

It appeared that this adorable golden was destined for the role. Phyllis Mueller, Max’s owner, said that her dog had been the mayor of Idyllwild since he was only an 11-week-old puppy.

Phyllis, who was working as Max’s Chief of Staff by default, said that the dog mayor loves meeting people and posing for cameras. It’s obvious that Max loves his calling.

For context, Idyllwild is a small community just outside of Palm Springs. The town’s local animal rescue organization decided to run a campaign to elect its first mayor. The only twist is that no humans were allowed to join – only their pets!

Phyllis’ previous Golden Retriever, who was also named Maximus Mueller I, was the town’s first dog mayor until he passed away while on his second term. Because of that, Phyllis had sought out another golden from Maximus I’s bloodline.

So what does Mayor Max do?

Max spends his day as an ambassador for goodwill in the California town. Together with his deputies, he would greet the tourists and locals alike. He would even visit hospitals, homes, and hospice organizations to carry out charitable activities.

Phyllis confidently says that Max’s leadership is non-political and non-partisan. Despite the absence of real politics in his administration, the pup’s approval rating has gone through the roof. The owner adds that she and Max only do loving and kind things for people.

Video Source: CBS Evening News via YouTube