Another Aide Departs Karen Bass' LA Mayor’s Office

Communications team loses fifth staffer as mayor faces reelection fight

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Another senior communications official, Amanda Crumley, has exited the office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, the latest shakeup in a mayoral press operation that has steadily lost key members over the past year. Crumley, who served as Deputy Mayor of Communications, confirmed she is stepping away from the administration after just a brief stint at City Hall to pursue a more balanced lifestyle.

Why it matters

The turnover in Mayor Bass’ communications team comes as she enters an increasingly high-stakes political stretch, with a difficult reelection fight looming. Battles over homelessness, public safety and city spending are intensifying — and the mayor’s messaging operation is now under growing scrutiny as the campaign season approaches.

The details

Crumley joined the mayor’s office in January, meaning her tenure lasted just over two months. The shakeup began last summer when Deputy Press Secretary Gabby Maarse left the mayor’s office for a communications role with LA28. Deputy Mayor of Communications Zach Seidl, one of Bass’ longest-serving communications advisers, left City Hall on Oct. 17, 2025 after roughly a decade working with the mayor both in Congress and at City Hall. Press Secretary Clara Karger has also since left the administration for a job in the private sector.

  • Crumley joined the mayor’s office in January 2026.
  • Gabby Maarse left the mayor’s office for a communications role with LA28 last summer.
  • Zach Seidl left City Hall on Oct. 17, 2025 after roughly a decade working with the mayor.

The players

Karen Bass

The mayor of Los Angeles who is facing a difficult reelection fight.

Amanda Crumley

The former Deputy Mayor of Communications who is leaving the administration to pursue a more balanced lifestyle.

Gabby Maarse

The former Deputy Press Secretary who left the mayor’s office for a communications role with LA28.

Zach Seidl

One of Bass’ longest-serving communications advisers who left City Hall in October 2025 after roughly a decade working with the mayor.

Clara Karger

The former Press Secretary who left the administration for a job in the private sector.

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What they’re saying

“I decided I want to do something better suited to having a balanced life, which is important to me. I remain committed in my support for Mayor Bass and look forward to her reelection!”

— Amanda Crumley, Former Deputy Mayor of Communications

What’s next

The mayor’s office will need to find a replacement for Crumley and continue to navigate the high-stakes political environment as Bass seeks reelection.

The takeaway

The frequent turnover in Mayor Bass’ communications team highlights the challenges she faces in maintaining a cohesive messaging operation during a critical period for her administration and reelection campaign.