Rick Caruso says he will support Karen Bass in mayoral race

Billionaire real estate developer Rick Caruso announced on Monday that he intends to vote for incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the upcoming election against challenger Nithya Raman. Caruso, who defeated Bass in the 2022 primary before losing in the general, stated that his recent collaboration with the mayor during the Palisades fire rebuilding process influenced his decision. He described Bass as having grown into the role, noting her dedication to helping families and communities recover.

A spokesperson for Caruso clarified that his comments serve as a personal voting intention rather than a formal endorsement. The Raman campaign did not respond to requests for comment regarding the development. Bass acknowledged the support, stating she is honored to have Caruso's vote and looking forward to continuing their work together to address major city issues over the next four years.

Caruso has previously expressed reservations about Raman's platform, particularly her intent to replace Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell. During an event at his Palisades Village shopping center last week, Caruso said he felt extreme concern about a candidate discussing the dismissal of the police chief. He also criticized Raman's record as the former head of the City Council’s Housing and Homelessness Committee, describing her track record as troubling.

The developer, whose portfolio includes the Grove, the Americana at Brand, and Palisades Village, initially considered running for mayor again in 2026 but decided against it. After his 2022 loss, Caruso frequently critiqued Bass's handling of homelessness and the Palisades fire on social media. His tone shifted following the June primary election as he engaged more closely with the administration.

In September, Caruso joined Bass at a groundbreaking ceremony in Pacific Palisades for the new Palisades Recreation Center. His nonprofit, Steadfast LA, helped raise funds for the project's reconstruction. Although he participated in the event, Caruso declined to name his preferred candidate for mayor at that time. He registered as a Democrat in 2022 after serving as a member of the Republican Party.