You know alot is said about the politics of HRD. Every martial art I have been in has some level of politics going on. I just exited the Chuck Norris system of Chun Kuk Do, heck if you werent a black belt, the other BB'ts wouldnt shake your hand. Not to mention that if you dont attend this function or that function (out of state of course costing lots of dollars) you were looked down upon. Not saying its wrong, but just read the posts of other MA's and you will find politics.
The bottom line is if you have Masters, Grand Masters and a pecking order, politics will exist. The question is, can you deal with the politics of that particular art you are interested in? If so, march on and have a great time.
I'm sure there are politics in what Ken is now doing. The difference is, he is now at the top of the pile directing them. Not a wrong thing to do.