Rick Caruso Declines 2026 Run for California Governor or Los Angeles Mayor
Los Angeles, Saturday, 17 January 2026.
The billionaire developer ended speculation about his political return Friday, opting to influence California’s wildfire recovery through his nonprofit, Steadfast LA, rather than seeking a government title.
A Strategic Withdrawal from the 2026 Cycle
On Friday, January 16, the 67-year-old real estate magnate confirmed he would not pursue a bid for either the governorship or a rematch for the Los Angeles mayoralty [1][2]. In a statement released via social media, Caruso cited extensive reflection and family discussions as the primary drivers behind his choice to step back from the electoral arena [2][6]. This announcement definitively closes the door on a potential campaign that had been the subject of intense speculation since the fall of 2025, when Caruso indicated he was considering another run following his narrow defeat in the 2022 mayoral race [2][8]. By bowing out, Caruso avoids the grueling demands of a truncated campaign schedule; a gubernatorial bid would have required him to introduce himself to voters outside Los Angeles at “warp-speed” before the statewide primary scheduled for June 2, 2026 [1][4].
Navigating a Polarized Political Climate
The decision reflects the complex political calculus required of a centrist Democrat in an increasingly polarized environment. Analysts note that the national political dynamic, heavily influenced by Democratic opposition to President Donald Trump, poses a significant hurdle for a candidate with Caruso’s profile [1]. Caruso, a former Republican and independent who joined the Democratic Party shortly before his 2022 run, has historically avoided the partisan rhetoric that currently energizes the party base [1]. In a landscape where Democratic candidates are leaning into anti-Trump sentiment to drive turnout for the November midterm elections, Caruso’s pathway to building a coalition of moderates and independents appeared increasingly tenuous [1]. Furthermore, a mayoral rematch against Karen Bass presented steep structural challenges in an overwhelmingly Democratic city where he previously lost by nearly 10 points [1].
The Wildfire Factor and Civic Engagement
While stepping away from the ballot, Caruso emphasized his continued commitment to civic recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires of 2025 [6]. The fires, which tore through the Pacific Palisades last year, destroyed Caruso’s own neighborhood and led him to openly criticize the city’s leadership during the crisis [1]. Despite this friction, Caruso has since pivoted toward collaboration, partnering with Mayor Bass and Lakers head coach JJ Redick to rebuild the Palisades Recreation Center [4]. His flagship retail property, Palisades Village, which was largely spared from the flames but closed during the reconstruction efforts, is slated to reopen later in 2026 [4]. Caruso stated that his public service would continue through Steadfast LA, a nonprofit he established to support communities impacted by the Palisades and Eaton fires, including recovery initiatives in Altadena [4][8].
Shifting Dynamics in California Races
Caruso’s exit significantly alters the field for the upcoming elections. In the race for governor, where incumbent Gavin Newsom is term-limited, the field remains crowded [8]. With former Vice President Kamala Harris also declining to run, the Democratic lane is occupied by contenders such as Representative Katie Porter and Representative Eric Swalwell, while Steve Hilton is running on the Republican side [2]. Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass is seeking re-election against a field that the City Ethics Commission currently lists at 25 candidates [8]. Caruso’s departure removes a well-funded, pro-business challenger who could have consolidated the centrist vote. As the state moves toward the June 2 primary and the subsequent general election on November 3, 2026, Caruso maintains that “public service does not require a title,” pledging to serve from a different seat [2][8].