Caruso Refrains from Supporting Recall Effort Against Mayor Bass, Citing Unity and Fiscal Concerns
Rick Caruso, the real estate developer and former Los Angeles mayoral candidate, has publicly stated his opposition to the ongoing recall effort targeting Democratic Mayor Karen Bass. This decision marks a notable divergence from some of Bass’s most vocal critics, particularly those who have cited her handling of recent devastating fires and subsequent leadership decisions as grounds for her removal from office.
Caruso, who ran against Bass in the 2022 mayoral election and ultimately lost, articulated his position via a post on X, formerly known as Twitter. He emphasized the critical need for unity and focused efforts on rebuilding Los Angeles communities, revitalizing the economy, and addressing pressing issues such as homelessness and business recovery.
"A mayoral recall right now is not a good idea," Caruso stated. "This is a time when Los Angeles needs unity, not costly and expensive political distractions. We must rebuild our communities, get people back into their homes, and open businesses that have been closed or lost. That must be our total focus. There is a time and place for politics, but it is not now."
The recall effort against Bass gained momentum following widespread criticism of her administration’s response to fires that inflicted significant damage on homes and businesses in areas such as Pacific Palisades and Altadena. These criticisms were exacerbated by the fact that Bass was on a trip to Ghana when the fires initially broke out, despite prior weather warnings. While she has expressed remorse for the timing of her trip, she has resisted calls for her resignation.
Adding to the controversy, Bass recently terminated Kristin Crowley from her position as the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) Chief. Crowley’s subsequent appeal to regain her position was unsuccessful. These events have further fueled the recall movement and intensified scrutiny of Bass’s leadership.
Caruso’s decision to not support the recall has drawn reactions from various stakeholders, including Nicole Shanahan, the former vice presidential pick of Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and a prominent supporter of the recall effort. Shanahan directly responded to Caruso’s post on X, questioning the lack of accountability and arguing that the recall reflects a unified desire for competent leadership rather than political division.
"Don’t people deserve accountability?!" Shanahan questioned. "I don’t see this as political division… I see this as LA being the most united I’ve ever seen it around the real cost of mismanagement. The recall team is [100%] bi-partisan. People want competency in their leadership."
Caruso responded to Shanahan’s remarks by acknowledging the desire for competent leadership but emphasizing the practical and financial implications of a recall election. He pointed out that a recall election would likely coincide with June’s primary election, incurring substantial costs for the city at a time when resources are already strained.
"But a recall election doesn’t happen overnight. It would run into June’s primary and cost the city millions we don’t have. Let’s be smart about how we move the city forward," Caruso explained.
The debate between Caruso and Shanahan has ignited a broader discussion about the merits of the recall effort. Some individuals, such as Tranquility AI co-founder Dave Harvilicz, have argued that recalling Bass would be a more cost-effective solution in the long run, citing the financial impact of recent fires and questioning Caruso’s priorities.
"Cheaper to keep her is that really your argument? Recalling her forthwith will likely be cheaper than keeping her in place (see: recent $200 billion fire that destroyed my family home). Shouldn’t this be up to the voters and not you anyway, Rick?" Harvilicz posted.
Others, like biotech entrepreneur Houman David Hemmati, have expressed strong opposition to Bass’s leadership and called for her immediate removal from office.
"Disagree Rick. [Karen Bass] poses a clear and present danger to LA. She must go immediately," Hemmati stated. "If you don’t want a recall, persuade her to resign. No other options. Sorry."
Conversely, some individuals have echoed Caruso’s concerns about the feasibility and potential divisiveness of a recall election. Elizabeth Barcohana, a member of the Los Angeles County GOP Central Committee, argued that pursuing a recall would be a waste of time and energy, ultimately demoralizing voters.
"The premise of [Caruso]’s decision not to back a recall (which is correct) is precisely BECAUSE it is the best interest of LA not to waste everyone’s time and energy on recall that is destined to fail and further demoralize voters at the worst possible time," Barcohana tweeted.
The process for initiating a recall election in Los Angeles requires a petition with signatures from 15% of registered voters in the city. Doug Herman, a strategist for Bass, has dismissed the recall effort as a politically motivated stunt designed to divide the city.
"This recall is nothing more than another extreme right-wing political stunt designed to divide Los Angeles when we need to move forward," Herman stated.
Caruso’s decision to refrain from supporting the recall effort adds another layer of complexity to the already charged political landscape in Los Angeles. His stated rationale of prioritizing unity and fiscal responsibility has resonated with some, while others remain critical of Bass’s leadership and believe a recall is necessary to hold her accountable. As the recall effort progresses, the debate surrounding Bass’s leadership and the future direction of Los Angeles is likely to intensify. The question of whether Caruso will mount another challenge against Bass in the 2026 mayoral election remains unanswered, adding another dimension to the ongoing political dynamics.
