Meet Max III, the Golden Retriever who is the Mayor of a small town in California

Idyllwild, California, has a unique political landscape with Mayor Max III, a golden retriever, leading the town. Continuing a tradition started in 2012, Max III attends events, boosts tourism, and spreads joy, succeeding previous canine mayors. This heartwarming story highlights the positive impact of an unconventional leader, bringing smiles and unity to the community.

🐾 Who Is Max III?

• Max III took office on December 9, 2022, at just three months old, succeeding Mayor Max II, who held the unique position until passing away in July 2022 at age nine The Spruce Pets+12Rogue Valley Times+12The Guardian+12The Washington Post+1Los Angeles Times+1.

• Since 2012, three generations of Golden Retrievers—Max I, Max II, and now Max III—have served as Idyllwild’s pet mayor, a tradition initiated by a local rescue fundraiser to raise awareness and funds for animal welfare Scoop Upworthy+5The Guardian+5KESQ+5.

🎈 What Does This “Mayor” Actually Do?

• Max III makes public appearances around town—greeting visitors, attending local events, ribbon-cutting ceremonies, culture festivals, and parades GOODKESQRogue Valley Times.

• He visits hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and even cuddles with patients in hospice care, offering comfort and community connection Daily Paws+5sogoodly.com+5The Guardian+5.

• Dressed in adorable neckties (though he’s known to chew several per month!), Max and his entourage—including Deputy Co-Mayors Mitzi and Mikey plus Vice Mayor Meadow Mighty‑Dog Mueller—help spread joy and serve as goodwill ambassadors The Guardian+13GOOD+13Rogue Valley Times+13.

• Max’s team is managed by his owner Phyllis Mueller, who acts as his self-appointed Chief of Staff and covers all costs personally.

🌟 Why Does Town Love Mayor Max III?

• Max is a unifying, nonpartisan symbol of unconditional love, optimism, and community spirit. His presence brings smiles, photo lines, and even boosts local tourism, with fans traveling just to meet him KCRW+7KESQ+7People.com+7.

• His role supports the mission of Animal Rescue Friends of Idyllwild (ARF)—the nonprofit that hosts the election and channels donations toward pet rescue efforts Rogue Valley Times+13en.wikipedia.org+13The Washington Post+13.

• Max has been described as the “heart of the town,” offering gentle companionship to those in need, visiting private homes daily, and attending up to 1,400 special visits during the COVID pandemic alone People.com+4The Guardian+4Daily Paws+4.

📋 Quick Facts

Mayor Max III isn’t your average leader—but in Idyllwild, he’s the perfect one. A dog may not pass legislation, but Max passes out love, comfort, and a sense of whimsy that brings his town together.