Clint Eastwood was the surprise candidate for mayor in the 1986 Carmel-by-the-Sea, California election. Much to everyone's shock, he won the election by a landslide with 70% of the votes. This was a success story for the legendary actor, who went on to serve as mayor of Carmel-by-the-Sea for two years. During his term, he successfully fought to keep the town's small-town charm and ensured that no high-rise buildings were allowed to be built. His determination and commitment to the small town helped keep Carmel-by-the-Sea a beloved destination for visitors and locals alike. Eastwood's two-year term as mayor has gone down in the books as one of his many accomplishments.