Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, owner of the Los Angeles Times, has publicly expressed regret over the newspaper’s endorsement of Karen Bass in the 2022 mayoral race, labeling the decision a “mistake.”
This admission follows significant criticism of Mayor Bass’s handling of recent catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles, which have caused over $50 billion in damages.
Critics have highlighted several key issues during the crisis:
- Budget Cuts to Fire Services: Mayor Bass approved a $17.6 million reduction in the Los Angeles Fire Department’s budget, reallocating funds to address homelessness. This decision has been linked to challenges faced by firefighters, including empty hydrants and low water pressure during the wildfires.
- Absence During Crisis: During the onset of the wildfires, Mayor Bass was in Ghana attending a presidential inauguration. Her absence has been criticized for potentially delaying critical emergency responses.
- Response to Criticism: Upon her return, Mayor Bass faced questions regarding the city’s preparedness and her absence. In interactions with the press, she was perceived as evasive and defensive.
Dr. Soon-Shiong emphasized the importance of competence in leadership, suggesting that electoral decisions should prioritize experience and capability over political affiliation. He stated, “We have to elect based on competence…yes competence matters.”
The Los Angeles Times has faced internal challenges regarding its editorial direction. Dr. Soon-Shiong previously intervened to prevent the endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris, leading to resignations within the editorial board. He has since sought to diversify the newspaper’s perspectives by incorporating more conservative voices.
Mayor Bass continues to address the ongoing wildfire crisis, with public scrutiny intensifying over her leadership and policy decisions during this critical period.
WATCH:
LA Times owner @DrPatSoonShiong says it was a “mistake” for his paper to endorse Karen Bass for Mayor in 2022.
“Competence matters,” he says.pic.twitter.com/0NJeZgXekD
— KanekoaTheGreat (@KanekoaTheGreat) January 13, 2025