Rick Caruso voices strong worries about Raman's police chief plan, stays neutral in mayoral runoff

During a launch of a utility-streamlining initiative at Palisades Village, billionaire developer Rick Caruso expressed “extreme concern” over Councilwoman Nithya Raman’s stated intention to dismiss Police Chief Jim McDonnell. While he complimented Mayor Karen Bass for her work and her support of the chief, Caruso stopped short of endorsing either side in the upcoming runoff, calling both candidates “tough choices.” Raman, who said the LAPD appears to shield ICE agents, has pledged to replace McDonnell but offered no specific schedule.

Bass warned that removing the chief could destabilize the department before the 2028 Olympic Games. Caruso highlighted his collaborative efforts with Bass after the 2025 Palisades fire and stressed that civic interests must transcend politics. He also announced the Power Ready LA program, aimed at cutting costs and speeding permits for housing and commercial projects.