In 2012, Max the Golden Retriever became the first mayor of the municipality of Idyllwild, California. Mayor Max died in 2013, however he was succeeded by Mayor Max the II, who has been in command of the town ever since. Because Idyllwild is a non-incorporated municipality with no human mayor, Idyllwild Animal Rescue Friends (ARF) financed the first-ever election for Idyllwild. Any person may nominate their pet, which resulted in 14 dogs and two cats on the vote. All votes cost one $1, with the revenues benefiting ARF. These aren't the only creatures who made it onto a ballot.