Rick Caruso confirms he’s not running for LA mayor despite critical report on Karen Bass

The billionaire real estate developer said Wednesday he was reconsidering options after the release of a critical news report on Mayor Karen Bass.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Real estate developer and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate Rick Caruso has confirmed once again that he’s not running for LA mayor in 2026. His decision not to run, for the second time, came a day after he said during a radio interview that he was contemplating his options following the release of a Los Angeles Times story, which said Mayor Karen Bass directed the watering-down of an after-action report critical of the LA Fire Department’s handling of the deadly Palisades Fire. Bass has vehemently denied the accusation.

Why it matters

Caruso’s decision not to run for LA mayor is significant, as he was seen as a formidable challenger to incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. The release of a critical report on Bass’ handling of the Palisades Fire had prompted Caruso to reconsider his earlier decision not to run, but he ultimately decided to stick with his original plan.

The details

Caruso, a billionaire real estate developer, had initially announced the decision not to run for elected office last month after talks with his family and the impacts of a potential campaign. Despite holding a statewide listening tour and appearing on multiple national talk shows, Caruso said he would not be running to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom in the 2026 California gubernatorial election. The mayoral campaign took another turn Thursday morning when former Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Austin Beutner announced he was dropping out of the race after his 22-year-old daughter Emily died unexpectedly last month.

  • On February 5, 2026, Rick Caruso confirmed he’s not running for LA mayor.
  • On February 4, 2026, Caruso said during a radio interview that he was contemplating his options following the release of a critical Los Angeles Times story on Mayor Karen Bass.
  • In January 2026, Caruso had initially announced the decision not to run for elected office.

The players

Rick Caruso

A billionaire real estate developer and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate.

Karen Bass

The current mayor of Los Angeles.

Austin Beutner

The former Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent who dropped out of the LA mayoral race.

Spencer Pratt

A reality television personality and Palisades Fire survivor who is running for LA mayor.

Rae Huang

A community organizer running for LA mayor.

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What they’re saying

“Rick is incredibly moved by outpouring of support but reached an earlier decision in a thoughtful process and it stands. He will not be a candidate for mayor,”

— Spokesperson for Rick Caruso (NBC Los Angeles)

What’s next

With two formidable possible opponents out of the race, Mayor Karen Bass faces challengers in Spencer Pratt, a reality television personality and Palisades Fire survivor, and Rae Huang, a community organizer, among others. Adam Miller, founder and former CEO of workforce education company Cornerstone OnDemand, also announced that he is running for the mayor’s office.

The takeaway

Caruso’s decision not to run for LA mayor, despite reconsidering after a critical report on Mayor Bass, highlights the complex political landscape in the city. The race now features a mix of established politicians, community organizers, and celebrities, underscoring the diverse interests and priorities of LA voters.