MAYOR MAX IS TOP DOG! Golden retriever runs small California town
MAX MUELLER, the mayor of tiny Idyllwild, Calif., is in the doghouse — but that’s okay. Hizzoner has been running the town for eight years after winning his first election as an 11-monthold puppy.
And the golden retriever, full name Maximus the Mighty Dog Mueller II, is doing a great job. His approval rating is through the woof!
The canny canine and his human, Phyllis Mueller, have a special political
GLOBE / November 22, 2021 relationship. She’s Mayor
Max’s chief of staff.
Like most political aides, Phyllis gushes about her boss, saying: “He knows what to do when he’s out in public. He loves people, he loves to pose for photographs. He just loves his job.”
The unincorporated town outside Palm Springs first went to the dogs when the local animal rescue group ran a campaign for mayor with the condition that the candidates be canines, felines or other pets. Humans were banned from the race.
The first winner was a golden retriever named Max, who was succeeded by the current politico from a similar bloodline. Max II serves along with his litter-mate aides, Deputy Mayor Mitzi and Deputy Mayor Mikey.
The three pups took over after the original Mayor Max died midway through his second term and now have been elected for life.
The trio have even been recognized by bigwigs in Riverside County.
The furry politicians act as official greeters for the town and also visit homes, hospitals and hospices to bring good cheer to residents who are feeling arf-ful.
Anyone who tries to tie them to a particular political party is barking up the wrong tree.
“We only do kind and loving things for people,” Phyllis says.
“Mayor Max doesn’t know what Republican or Democrat means, but he does know how to love you unconditionally.”