Full Breakdown
Rick Caruso Declines to Run for Governor or Mayor in 2026
1/17/2026, 4:07:29 AM
Announcement and Decision
Rick Caruso, the billionaire developer and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate, announced on January 16, 2026, that he will not run for either California governor or Los Angeles mayor in the upcoming elections. This decision follows months of speculation regarding his potential candidacy, particularly after his significant loss to Mayor Karen Bass in the 2022 mayoral race. In a statement shared on social media, Caruso expressed disappointment in stepping back from what he deemed a critical election for California's future, citing "many heartfelt conversations" with his family as a pivotal factor in his decision.
Background and Context
Caruso's political journey has been marked by his 2022 mayoral campaign, where he spent over $100 million of his own money but lost to Bass by nearly 10 percentage points. His campaign was characterized by a focus on public safety and quality of life issues, particularly in the wake of the devastating Palisades Fire that impacted his community. Following the fire, Caruso criticized Bass's leadership, which contributed to speculation about a rematch. However, the political landscape has shifted since then, with Bass's approval ratings recovering due to her stance against the Trump administration's policies.
Implications for the Political Landscape
Caruso's withdrawal from the races reshapes the dynamics for both the gubernatorial and mayoral contests. In the mayoral race, he would have faced not only Bass but also other challengers, including former Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent Austin Beutner and community organizer Rae Huang. For the governor's race, Caruso's absence leaves a crowded field that includes prominent Democratic figures like Katie Porter and Eric Swalwell, as well as Republican candidates.
Official Statements & Responses
In his announcement, Caruso stated, "Though my name will not be on a ballot, my work continues. Public service does not require a title. It is, and always will be, my calling." He emphasized his commitment to community service through his nonprofit, Steadfast LA, which focuses on recovery efforts from the Palisades Fire. Political analysts suggest that Caruso's decision may have been influenced by polling data indicating a challenging path to victory in either race.
Criticism & Opposition
While Caruso has garnered support from some quarters, his past as a former Republican and his late registration as a Democrat have raised questions among voters, particularly in a state that leans heavily Democratic. Critics argue that his political positioning may not resonate with the broader electorate, especially in light of the polarized political climate.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is speculation regarding Caruso's motivations for not running, with some analysts suggesting that internal polling may have indicated a lack of viable pathways to victory. However, Caruso has not publicly confirmed this, leaving some ambiguity about the factors influencing his decision.
What's Next
With Caruso stepping aside, the focus now shifts to the remaining candidates in both races. The political landscape is expected to evolve as candidates position themselves ahead of the elections, with Caruso's previous critiques of Bass likely continuing to influence the mayoral race dynamics.