In Idyllwild, California, the mayor is a golden retriever named Mayor Max. Yep, paw-litics are real, and they’re adorably effective.
This sounds more like an old-school Disney movie than real life, but you know what? In 2025, anything goes, so why not? Meet Mayor Max, the mayor of Idyllwild, California. Yep, this town officially has a dog for a mayor. But here’s the kicker: Mayor Max isn’t even the first canine to hold the title. Idyllwild has been electing golden retrievers as mayors since 2006. That’s almost two decades of wagging tails, slobbery kisses, and the best political platform ever—belly rubs for everyone!
If you’re scratching your head and wondering how in the world a dog becomes a mayor, you’re not alone. But in this quirky mountain town, it makes perfect sense. You see, Idyllwild doesn’t have an actual human government—no city council or mayoral office. Instead, they decided to let their four-legged friends take the reins… or rather, the leash. The tradition started as a fundraiser for local animal rescues, and clearly, it was a hit.
Mayor Max II, the current top dog, is more than just a pretty face. He’s a local celebrity, spreading joy and wagging his way through town events, parades, and charity functions. Decked out in his official mayoral tie and riding in his custom truck, Mayor Max’s platform is simple but effective: Unconditional love and kindness. And with approval ratings through the woof (couldn’t resist), he’s clearly doing something right.
Idyllwild isn’t the only town in the United States to elect an animal as mayor. From a goat named Lincoln in Fair Haven, Vermont, to a cat named Stubbs in Talkeetna, Alaska, animal mayors are a quirky but beloved tradition in small towns across the country. It turns out that sometimes, the best politicians are the ones who don’t say a word.
Curious about how all of this paw-litics really works? Great Big Story paid a visit to Idyllwild to find out. Check it out:
