Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is seeking re-election, despite facing criticism for her handling of past crises, including the Palisades and Eaton Fires, which occurred while she was reportedly abroad in Ghana on a taxpayer-funded trip.
Her recent media appearances, particularly on lesser-known Democratic podcasts, suggest an attempt to reshape her public image and record.
According to RedState, Bass has controversially compared the 2025 anti-ICE riots in Los Angeles to the celebratory antics of sports fans after a Lakers championship victory. This comparison has sparked outrage, as it downplays the severity of the events, which included the burning of vehicles and clashes with law enforcement.
Bass further claimed that the National Guard was unnecessary during the unrest and likened ICE officers to "modern-day slave patrols," a statement that has drawn significant criticism.
In a podcast with former DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, Bass reiterated her stance that the anti-ICE protests were not riots, equating the incidents to post-championship celebrations. "Nothing was going on. OK, we have some protests," Bass told Harrison. "You want to know the protests, in my opinion, equaled a Lakers championship." Her comments have been met with skepticism, particularly from those who witnessed the violence and destruction firsthand.
The Los Angeles Police Protective League, representing the city's police officers, has publicly disagreed with Bass's characterization of the events. They argue that the protests frequently escalated into riots, citing the destruction of property and injuries to officers as evidence. "We disagree with anyone who characterizes the numerous times these protests turned into riots," the union stated.
"All one has to do is look at the videos of the Waymo vehicles destroyed, the CHP car set on fire, the vandalism of property, looting of businesses and injuries to police officers to call that criminal behavior what it was, a riot."
Bass's revisionist narrative is not new. In previous instances, she has been accused of downplaying or denying the occurrence of riots, even when confronted with evidence to the contrary. Her comments have led to questions about her leadership and accountability, particularly in light of her response to the Palisades and Eaton Fires.
In a podcast interview reported by RedState's Bob Hoge, Bass admitted that both sides "botched it" in their response to the fires, though her staff reportedly attempted to suppress this admission before the interview aired.
Critics argue that Bass's rhetoric and actions demonstrate a lack of respect for law enforcement and a disregard for the challenges faced by ICE agents. Her comments on the motivations of Hispanic Border Patrol agents, attributing their service to financial necessity under Trump's economy, have been labeled as insulting and dismissive.
Despite these controversies, Bass remains in office, a fact that many find perplexing given the calls for her resignation or recall.
The Los Angeles Police Protective League has been vocal in its criticism of Bass, highlighting the physical and emotional toll on officers during the protests. They have accused Bass of ordering police to stand down, leaving officers vulnerable to attacks and property destruction.
When President Trump deployed the National Guard to restore order, Bass publicly opposed the move, framing it as an invasion and demanding their withdrawal.
As the anniversary of the devastating fires approaches, Bass continues to face scrutiny over her role in the events and her efforts to aid in the recovery. In an interview, she acknowledged the anger directed at her but expressed hope in the ongoing reconstruction efforts.
"To see all of the construction taking place, that's hopeful, that's inspiring to me," Bass said. "But it's still painful, and I understand grief."
For many Angelenos, Bass's attempts to rewrite history and deflect blame are unacceptable. Her leadership has been called into question, and there is a growing sentiment that she should not be re-elected. The city's residents are urged to hold her accountable and ensure that their voices are heard in the upcoming election.
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