Los Angeles Mayor Bass Endorses Villaraigosa for California Governor

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has officially endorsed former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa for California's 2026 gubernatorial race, highlighting their long-standing alliance and shared commitment to social and economic justice. Bass praised Villaraigosa as a leader capable of uniting the state around shared values and addressing critical issues such as education, housing affordability, and job opportunities. Villaraigosa, who previously served as LA mayor from 2005 to 2013 and as a member of the California State Assembly, expressed gratitude for Bass's support and emphasized their collaboration to improve the lives of Californians. The endorsement comes amid a competitive Democratic field that includes prominent figures like Katie Porter and Xavier Becerra, with no clear frontrunner following Vice President Kamala Harris's decision not to run. If elected, Villaraigosa would be the first LA mayor to become governor and one of the first Latino governors in California since the 19th century. Both politicians have supported each other’s campaigns over the years, underscoring a durable political partnership.