Los Angeles Mayoral Election: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2026 Los Angeles mayoral election is shaping up to be a highly competitive and dramatic race, with several candidates vying for the top spot. The ballot is finalized, at least for now, and features a diverse range of candidates with varying backgrounds and platforms. In this article, we will provide an overview of the top candidates, their experience, and their stances on key issues.
Karen Bass
Karen Bass was elected as Los Angeles’ first female and second Black mayor in 2022, following decades of service in various elected offices. During her tenure, she has focused on addressing homelessness and public safety, although her administration has faced sharp criticism over the city’s response to the 2025 fires. Bass’s experience and expertise in governance make her a strong contender in the election.
For more information on Karen Bass’s profile and her response to the Palisades fire, please refer to our previous articles: Karen Bass profile and Bass and response to Palisades fire.
Rae Huang
Rae Huang is a community organizer, minister, and dues-paying member of the Los Angeles chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America. She serves as the deputy director of Housing Now California, a coalition that fights displacement of tenants at the state and local levels. Huang is challenging Karen Bass from the left and has gained attention for her progressive stance on housing and social issues.
(Ronaldo Bolaños / Los Angeles Times)
For more information on Rae Huang’s campaign and her potential to become L.A.’s version of Julia Salazar or Zellnor Myrie, please refer to our article: She’s challenging Bass from the left. Could she become L.A.’s Mamdani?
Adam Miller
Nonprofit Co-Founder; Tech Executive
Adam Miller is the co-founder of Better Angels, a nonprofit focused on preventing homelessness and building affordable housing. As a tech executive, he has made a fortune developing education software. Miller’s experience in both the non-profit and tech sectors brings a unique perspective to the election.
