California Mogul Eyes Governor Run Amid Fire Devastation
The real estate mogul, who faced significant losses due to the Pallisard fire, is contemplating a 2026 run to transform California’s governance.
It’s not Rick Caruso, although he’s also mulling a run for governor or the mayoralty of Los Angeles. Instead, Elaine Clotty, a billionaire known for her support of Trump, is at the center of attention, having lost $100 million in the fire.
Clotty has openly criticized Measure Ula, a “Mansion Tax” that has stalled real estate sales and complicated rebuilding efforts in Palisades and Los Angeles. She is now considering whether to join a growing list of candidates, including conservative commentator Steve Hilton and Sheriff Chad Robianco.
Meanwhile, Governor Gavin Newsom is in South Carolina, exploring a 2028 presidential bid. His track record shows a pattern of negligence; for example, he was out of the country when a deadly snowstorm hit the San Bernardino Mountains in 2023, barely facing criticism from local media.
Clotty recently stated on Newsmax that voters are seeking a shake-up in California politics:
She describes herself as an “all tulumper” and anticipates a rise in Republican popularity in the state, noting that 48% of Republicans are expected to favor the party by March 2025 as people grow disillusioned with current energy prices, rising crime, and homelessness.
Her critiques resonate widely. She highlights California’s staggering $322 billion budget and a $12 billion deficit, mentioning that the homeless crisis has consumed $24 billion with little improvement. Moreover, she points out the high-speed rail project, which has already cost $100 billion, as a prime example of politicians’ poor management of public funds.
Clotty is not California’s first celebrity candidate—Ronald Reagan and Arnold Schwarzenegger come to mind. However, she would be the first to blend her Hollywood background with a successful business career. Her practical approach may distinguish her in a field where many candidates shy away from addressing pressing issues, opting instead to focus on identity politics and broader sentiments.
For instance, when asked about priorities, former Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, a leading Democratic candidate, simply mentioned the need to “bring people together.”
Regardless, Clotty’s potential entry into the political sphere could highlight the policy failures that contributed to the Palisades fire destruction, which remain unaddressed.
