Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass on Immigration, Homelessness, Housing Reforms, and the 2028 Olympics

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass recently offered insights into several crucial city priorities, including immigration enforcement, homelessness, zoning reforms, wildfire recovery, and preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics, in an exclusive studio interview with host Elex Michaelson. She also marked his penultimate episode of hosting “The Issue Is,” reflecting on their coverage of key civic issues.

Bass addressed the wave of federal immigration raids that began in June 2025. She reaffirmed the city’s commitment to ensuring enforcement remains lawful and devoid of racial bias, noting growing tension between federal directives and local community priorities.

Homelessness continues to demand urgent attention. Bass reported, per Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority data, that her administration has moved over 21,000 people indoors since declaring a state of emergency in 2022. That progress accompanies a record-high $1.3 billion allocated to homelessness programs in fiscal year 2023–2024. However, audits have noted that under half of that budget was spent or committed during that period.

On housing policy, Bass’s administration pursued zoning reform through Executive Directive 1, which accelerated approvals for 100 percent affordable housing projects. A revised version in June 2023 clarified that streamlining does not apply to single-family or more restrictive zones. This adjustment effectively prevents affordable housing incentives from applying to much of Los Angeles’s predominantly single-family land, which makes up more than 70 percent of residential areas. Housing advocates have raised concerns that the change could slow progress on addressing the housing crisis.

Bass also discussed recovery from the Palisades Fire, highlighting the city’s commitment to rebuilding affected neighborhoods and strengthening wildfire prevention measures.

Regarding the 2028 Summer Olympic Games, Bass outlined efforts to coordinate with federal and state partners to ensure security and readiness. She noted that recent security incidents, including the April 2024 break-in at the mayor’s official residence, serve as reminders of the importance of proactive safety planning.

Bass also acknowledged Michaelson’s contributions as he nears the end of his tenure on “The Issue Is” and expressed appreciation for his work in covering local and state affairs.