When you're in a country ruled completely by the government, being a politician isn't a bad thing.
And when you're the lead politician of a group, that makes you the big dog.
And like they say, if you're not the lead dog, the view's all the same.

The Chinese are paying special attention to the American delegation this week, and since Mayor Joe Sinnott is our leader, he is getting special attention too.
Every move he makes is photographed or videotaped by someone.
When we were picked up at the airport, there was a police escort followed by a private car for the Mayor, and then a bus for everyone else.
It's led to some ribbing asking the Mayor how the other half lives.

When we visit someplace, the leaders come out and stand on the steps to welcome us, always directing their attention toward Sinnott.
It's his party and we're just guests in the background.
The police even shut down traffic (no small feat in a town of 4.2 million) to make sure the Mayor gets to his next stop on time.
I asked him if he wants that treatment when he returns home.
He says he likes things just the way they are.