Austin Beutner Announces Mayoral Run in Los Angeles

Former Superintendent of the Los Angeles Unified School District, Austin Beutner, shared on Monday his intention to run for mayor of Los Angeles, aiming to succeed Democrat Karen Bass in 2026.

At 65, Beutner, who previously worked as an investment banker, expressed in a video announcement that he believes Los Angeles is “drifting.” He emphasized that after nearly two decades in public service, he’s learned how to “get things done.” He mentioned that city life seems to be becoming more costly, unsafe, and less enjoyable.

“We’ve invested billions trying to tackle swelling issues like homelessness and job losses,” Beutner remarked in his video. Notably, neither his campaign nor Bass’s office has commented on inquiries from the press.

In the video, he stated, “I’m running for mayor of LA. After working in the public sector for 17 years, I’ve realized what makes LA special. However, our city seems to be adrift, and it’s crucial that we collaborate to steer it back on track.”

Beutner held the position of LAUSD superintendent from May 2018 until June 2021, having previously been the Deputy Mayor of Los Angeles from 2010 to 2013, according to reports. In 2014, he became the publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Times, but left the role in September 2015.

Before his tenure in education, Beutner was reportedly the youngest partner at the Blackstone Group and worked in the U.S. State Department during Bill Clinton’s presidency.

In June 2021, Beutner reflected on his time leading LAUSD, claiming the schools had become a “model for the nation.” He also founded Vision to Learn in 2012, a program aimed at providing free vision testing and eyewear to children in underserved communities.

He initially supported Bass in her successful bid for mayor in 2022, where she defeated billionaire Rick Caruso with a vote tally of 53% to 47%. Caruso is now contemplating another run for either the California governorship or the mayoralty in 2026.

Earlier this year, Beutner filed a lawsuit against LAUSD, alleging $80 million had been misappropriated from funds meant for arts and music education. His claims came at a time when the district was under scrutiny for balancing a range of complex issues.

Interestingly, the current mayor faced criticism for her handling of the Palisades Fire incident that occurred earlier this year, which tragically resulted in 12 fatalities.