Caruso, whose Pacific Palisades neighborhood was devastated by last year’s wildfires, said he would continue community work through his nonprofit Steadfast LA
Billionaire developer Rick Caruso announced Thursday he will not seek California governor or Los Angeles mayor in 2026, ending months of speculation about a potential bid.
In a social media statement, Caruso cited family considerations and the impact on loved ones as key factors in his decision.
“After much reflection and many heartfelt conversations with my family, I have decided not to pursue elected office at this time,” Caruso wrote. “It was a difficult decision, and I am deeply disappointed to step back from an election I believe is so critical to California’s future.”
Caruso, whose Pacific Palisades neighborhood was devastated by last year’s wildfires, said he would continue community work through his nonprofit Steadfast LA, supporting victims of the Palisades and Eaton fires, and through his company and family foundation.
“Public service does not require a title,” he added. “It is, and will always be, my calling. I remain devoted to serving our communities in every way I can, just from a different seat.”
Caruso, a centrist Democrat and former mayoral candidate who lost to Karen Bass in 2022, had been widely seen as a potential contender amid post-fire criticism of local leadership.
