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Bass backs LAPD chief, calls for city-led homelessness system
The Los Angeles mayor reaffirmed confidence in Chief Jim McDonnell and outlined how she wants the city to handle immigration-related protests and homelessness services.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said she has no intention of removing Police Chief Jim McDonnell and retains confidence in him as the mayoral campaign enters its final weeks, according to an ABC7 interview published Friday.
LAPD leadership: Bass said McDonnell has her confidence
Immigration operations: She said LAPD should protect the broader community and prevent clashes
Homelessness policy: Bass called for the city to take direct responsibility for its homeless population
Homelessness structure in focus
Bass said the current division of responsibilities between the city, county and Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority has complicated oversight. She proposed a structure that would put Los Angeles city government in charge of services for people experiencing homelessness within city limits.
That position builds on a March statement from the mayor's office saying Los Angeles must develop the internal capacity to address homelessness. The same statement cautioned that leaving LAHSA too quickly, without an operating plan, could disrupt services.
Campaign dispute over policing
Bass' comments followed a social-media post involving opponent Nithya Raman that criticized LAPD's response to federal immigration operations. Bass characterized it as an attack on the chief and department. Raman's campaign denied that interpretation and removed the post.
Sources: ABC7 Los Angeles, October 9, 2026 → and Mayor of Los Angeles, March 4, 2026 →