Former LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner Launches Challenge to Mayor Karen Bass

Los Angeles, CA – Former Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Superintendent Austin Beutner officially announced his candidacy for mayor of Los Angeles today, setting up a high-profile challenge to incumbent Karen Bass.

Beutner, who led LAUSD from 2018 to 2021, launched his campaign yesterday, criticizing Mayor Bass’s response to recent crises, including the Palisades fire. He specifically cited the city’s preparedness and response as areas needing significant improvement. “Los Angeles deserves a mayor who is prepared to lead on day one, and who will take responsibility for results,” Beutner stated during his announcement. This challenge comes as Mayor Bass seeks re-election and faces scrutiny over issues like homelessness and public safety.

Beutner previously served as a close ally to Mayor Bass, co-chairing her mayoral transition team in late 2022. His decision to run against her marks a significant shift in the political landscape of Los Angeles. He has emphasized a focus on improving public schools, addressing the city’s fiscal challenges, and enhancing public safety as key pillars of his campaign. For more information on the mayoral race, see the California election guidelines.

The mayoral election is scheduled for March 2025, and this contest is expected to be closely watched, given Beutner’s familiarity with city issues and his previous political alignment with the current mayor. City officials have stated they anticipate a robust debate on the future direction of Los Angeles. Learn more about the current mayoral administration here.

Beutner’s campaign team indicated he will be holding a series of town hall meetings throughout the city in the coming weeks to outline his vision for Los Angeles.