Mayor Bass Endorses Antonio Villaraigosa for 2026 California Governor Race

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has officially endorsed former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in his bid for the 2026 California gubernatorial election. The endorsement, announced on Tuesday, positions Villaraigosa as a significant contender in the crowded race to succeed term-limited Governor Gavin Newsom. Bass and Villaraigosa appeared together at a news conference in South Los Angeles to make the announcement public.

Mayor Bass highlighted Villaraigosa's extensive experience and shared commitment to social and economic justice. "Antonio and I have worked together to advance social and economic justice throughout our entire adult life," Bass stated, emphasizing that California's next governor must be "deeply rooted in our California values and possess an unmatched record of action." She further expressed confidence that Villaraigosa would "stand up to the White House's attacks on our state and deliver needed results."

Villaraigosa, who previously served as Los Angeles Mayor from 2005 to 2013 and as Speaker of the California State Assembly, expressed gratitude for the endorsement. "I am honored to have the endorsement of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass," Villaraigosa said in a statement, adding, "I greatly appreciate her support in this campaign and look forward to collaborating with Mayor Bass for the health, safety, and betterment of Angelenos and all Californians." The two politicians share a long history of mutual support, with Villaraigosa having backed Bass's 2022 mayoral campaign.

This marks Villaraigosa's second attempt at the governorship, having previously run in 2018. His campaign emphasizes his track record as a "proven problem solver for California," focusing on key issues such as public safety, housing, and homelessness. The 2026 primary election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with a diverse field of Democratic candidates vying for the top-two spots to advance to the general election.