A longtime registered Republican who changed party affiliation in 2011 fits the center left mold more than anything. He ran for Mayor against Karen Bass and lost by only 10 points which is pretty significant considering his much more conservative positions. I think it is still safe to say that no one who is registered as a Republican could win the LA Mayor's race or the Governor's race at the moment... they will get there soon rather than later but Caruso would be a huge change in either position given his moderate positioning.
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149 sats \ 3 replies \ @SimpleStacker 21 Jan
Depends on the opposition candidate, but I think he could win. Karen Bass is dead in the water. That video of her standing in silence in response to questions about the fire has killed her political career.
IIRC, Nathan Hochman, the current DA of Los Angeles, was also a former republican who won in 2024. IMO, Angelenos are ready to look at conservative candidates, as long as they don't have the (R) attached to their name.
With respect to the fires, Caruso can easily put out a winning message that pays lip service to climate change while emphasizing bureaucratic competence and "getting things done" and "keeping Angelenos safe".
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0 sats \ 2 replies \ @Cje95 OP 21 Jan
Yeah I agree with the issue with the R attached to anyone's name and how they do seem to be looking towards the middle more. That is why I think he would fit the bill very very well and could win in a race by a landslide. I am sure he will get knocked for having private fire fighters but ya know the guy protected his property that isnt his fault.
I heard this weekend that Bass had said during her election run that she wouldnt leave the country during her term as Mayor and welp she did not keep that promise at all!
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0 sats \ 1 reply \ @SimpleStacker 21 Jan
I heard about that too. I'm surprised it was even an issue for the election. I guess she used to travel a lot?
I don't think having private firefighters will turn out to be a big political liability. He can easily turn it around and say it shows preparedness, and that he wouldn't have cut the fire department's budget because he's willing to pay to keep his people safe.
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0 sats \ 0 replies \ @Cje95 OP 21 Jan
Members of Congress travel allllll the time I mean I would say it is part of the job description and I am not sure if LA has had a previous issue with the Mayor traveling but from a Member of Congress angel they travel a lot
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