From the Detroit News:

"Ilitch companies are the city’s fourth largest employer in the city, with 7,686 workers, which is 1,325 more than General Motors employs in Detroit. Income tax collected from workers' paychecks is the city government's largest source of funds. The money helps pay for services such as police, fire department and fixing potholes."

This single paragraph probably most vividly paints the reality of why they are held to a different standard. How are you going to bite the hand that feeds you, and continue to be fed?