Sep 27, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Rep. Karen Bass launches run for Los Angeles mayor

Yacob Reyes

Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) on Monday launched her bid for mayor of Los Angeles.

Why it matters: Bass is a high-profile member of Congress. The former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, she was considered as a potential running mate to President Joe Biden and was a lead negotiator in the recently ended talks on police reform. Should Bass win the mayoral election, she would become the first female mayor in L.A. history.

It is still unclear if Bass will remain in her House seat during her run for mayor and what effect this may have on the Democrats' slim majority in Congress.

What they're saying: "Our city is facing a public health, safety and economic crisis in homelessness that has evolved into a humanitarian emergency," Bass said in a statement.

"I've spent my entire life bringing groups of people together in coalitions to solve complex problems and produce concrete change — especially in times of crisis," she added.
"Los Angeles is my home. With my whole heart, I'm ready. ... I'm running for mayor."

Editor's note: This story has been updated with Bass' statement.

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Rep. Karen Bass launches run for Los Angeles mayor

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