Billionaire developer Rick Caruso will not run for L.A. mayor or California governor
Los Angeles Times • • general
Key Points:
- Billionaire developer Rick Caruso announced he will not run for Los Angeles mayor or California governor after months of speculation, citing family considerations and a desire to continue public service without holding office.
- Caruso, who spent $100 million in his 2022 mayoral bid and narrowly lost to Karen Bass, will focus on his nonprofit Steadfast LA, which aids fire recovery efforts, particularly from recent Palisades and Eaton fires.
- Political consultants expressed surprise at Caruso’s decision, noting promising polling for both mayoral and gubernatorial races, but acknowledged his choice was driven by family and quality of life concerns rather than electability.
- Caruso’s withdrawal solidifies the 2026 Los Angeles mayoral race field, leaving incumbent Karen
