Mayor Bass Optimistic About Reelection as LA Prepares for Global Events
Mayor Confident in Los Angeles’ Readiness for Upcoming Major Events
As Los Angeles prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mayor Karen Bass expressed optimism on Wednesday about the city’s readiness for the 2028 Olympics. Despite facing a challenging approval rating, Bass remains committed to uniting various voter groups in her bid for re-election this November.
A recent poll conducted by Emerson College and Inside California Politics revealed that only 24% of Los Angeles voters approve of Bass’ performance, while 47% disapprove. The same survey indicated that a significant 50.9% of voters remain undecided about their choice for the next mayor. Currently, Bass holds 19.5% support, followed by reality TV star Spencer Pratt at 10.2%, and Councilmember Nithya Raman with 9.3%.
Addressing her approval ratings, Bass acknowledged the current discontent among voters. “I think the electorate is in a foul mood,” she stated during an interview with NBC Los Angeles. “What I am confident about is bringing various groups together, doing the grassroots work, and garnering support from the business community, labor, and community organizations.”
Bass’s low ratings have been exacerbated by criticism surrounding her handling of the Palisades Fire. Community members, including her challenger Pratt, have voiced concerns about her response to the disaster. In January, President Donald Trump enacted an executive order to oversee the rebuilding efforts in the Pacific Palisades, appointing Environmental Protection Agency Director Lee Zeldin to investigate the city’s permit process.
Bass noted that Zeldin examined over 2,000 permits and found that many applications stalled due to issues involving the banking and insurance industries. “We reached those people and found that the reason they are stuck is because of the banking industry and the insurance industry,” she explained. Following this revelation, Bass contacted the White House to address the inadequate support for fire victims.
“I appealed to the President and said, ‘Only you can bring these two industries together in your Oval Office,’” she recounted. Bass emphasized the need for assistance with FEMA reimbursement to fund vital infrastructure projects in the Palisades.
While Bass deems recent discussions with the President as constructive, she expressed concern over the potential impact of the ongoing conflict in Iran, fearing that it may lead to budget shortfalls that could hinder the city’s ability to hire more police officers.
In response to recent incidents of street takeovers in downtown Los Angeles, Bass announced plans to enhance LAPD patrols, including increased foot patrols and the deployment of undercover units. “We will put a stop to that. You won’t see that again,” she assured the public.
Despite the city’s public safety challenges, Bass maintains that Los Angeles will be prepared to host the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics safely. She highlighted the collaboration with federal law enforcement, pointing out President Trump’s vested interest in the high-profile events. “You know he wants to be front and center on the World Cup,” Bass remarked. “And I believe the World Cup will be safe along with the Olympics.”
