LA Mayor Karen Bass could be ousted as recall effort launches
An effort to recall Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has officially launched its website, RecallBassNow.com, on Tuesday. The Democratic mayor has faced significant backlash for her response to the wildfires that ravaged the Pacific Palisades in January, particularly the fact that she was in Ghana despite warnings of dangerous fire conditions beforehand.
If the recall petition garners the necessary signatures – 15% of Los Angeles registered voters – a special election would be triggered. The group spearheading the effort includes individuals directly impacted by the wildfires, as well as residents frustrated with the city’s crime and homelessness issues. A source familiar with the campaign noted that there is a bipartisan makeup of those involved in the recall effort.
The Los Angeles Times reported that fundraising efforts were underway to support Bass’ potential ouster, highlighting the growing momentum behind the recall movement. The website lists various reasons for supporting Mayor Bass’ removal, including the slashing of the LAFD’s budget by over $17 million, which has resulted in a lack of critical resources for firefighters.
Mayor Bass recently fired LAFD Chief Kirstin Crowley, who had raised concerns about the department’s funding and staffing levels. She was replaced by Ronnie Villanueva, with Mayor Bass citing the need for new leadership within the fire department. In a statement, Bass emphasized the importance of public safety and efficient emergency response in justifying Crowley’s removal.
In a recent interview with Fox 11 Los Angeles, Mayor Bass expressed regret for not being present during the wildfires, acknowledging that she was not fully aware of the severity of the situation. She mentioned that investigations into the city’s response to the fires are ongoing and emphasized the need for a comprehensive examination of the events that transpired.
Despite mounting pressure, including a Change.org petition with over 176,000 signatures calling for her resignation, Mayor Bass has not indicated any intention to step down voluntarily. Doug Herman, a strategist for Bass, dismissed the recall effort as a “right-wing political stunt” aimed at dividing Los Angeles.
As the recall campaign gains traction, the future of Mayor Karen Bass’s leadership hangs in the balance. With tensions running high and residents demanding accountability, the outcome of the recall effort could reshape the political landscape of Los Angeles.
