Rick Caruso Will Not Run for L.A. Mayor or California Governor in 2026
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- Billionaire Rick Caruso announced he will not run for California governor or challenge Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in the upcoming elections, deciding to remain on the sidelines after careful consideration and family discussions.
- Caruso's withdrawal relieved competitors in both races, as his substantial personal wealth and previous campaign spending had made him a formidable contender.
- Caruso had previously challenged Bass in 2022, spending over $100 million of his own money, but lost decisively; since then, Bass's approval ratings have fluctuated due to her handling of the Los Angeles fires and immigration issues.
- Bass faces challengers including business executive Austin Beutner and Republican-backed reality TV star Spencer Pratt, with internal polls suggesting Caruso would have struggled to
