LA Mayor Bass' Former Rival Takes a Stand Against Her Recall Campaign

Former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Rick Caruso has declared his opposition to the recall effort targeting Democratic Mayor Karen Bass, his rival in the 2022 election. Caruso took to X earlier this week, stating, "A mayoral recall right now is not a good idea. This is a time when Los Angeles needs unity, not costly and expensive political distractions."

Caruso emphasized that the city's priorities should be rebuilding communities, addressing homelessness, and reviving businesses rather than diving into more political turmoil. While his stance has raised eyebrows considering his earlier criticism of Bass, it reflects his belief that the city’s focus should be on recovery rather than division.

The recall campaign emerged following backlash to Bass' handling of the devastating fires in Pacific Palisades. Critics were particularly incensed by her absence from the city during the disaster; Bass was in Ghana when the fires erupted despite weather warnings. Although she expressed remorse for her timing, she has resisted calls to resign. Adding fuel to the fire, Bass recently dismissed fire chief Kristin Crowley, whose appeal to regain her position failed.

Caruso's decision to steer clear of the recall battle has drawn mixed reactions. Nicole Shanahan, a major supporter of the recall, lashed out at Caruso's post, stating, "Don’t people deserve accountability?! I don’t see this as political division… I see this as LA being the most united I’ve ever seen it around the real cost of mismanagement." Shanahan argued the recall effort is bipartisan and necessary.

Others also voiced frustration with Caruso's position. Biotech entrepreneur Houman David Hemmati posted, "Disagree Rick. [Karen Bass] poses a clear and present danger to LA. She must go immediately." Meanwhile, Tranquility AI co-founder Dave Harvilicz criticized Caruso’s cost-related concerns, pointing out the financial toll of the fires themselves.

On the flip side, some agreed with Caruso’s cautious approach. GOP Central Committee member Elizabeth Barcohana commented that pursuing a recall would be futile and could backfire, further demoralizing voters.

To trigger a recall election, proponents need signatures from 15% of registered voters in Los Angeles—a daunting task. Doug Herman, a strategist for Bass, dismissed the campaign as an "extreme right-wing political stunt designed to divide Los Angeles when we need to move forward."

Caruso, a real estate mogul who lost to Bass in 2022, has not indicated whether he plans to challenge her again in 2026. But his decision to step away from the recall drama certainly keeps his name in the headlines—a strategic move, perhaps, for someone who knows the political chessboard well.