Magic Johnson endorses LA Mayor Bass amid Lakers owner's Pratt support
Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson endorsed incumbent Mayor Karen Bass for re-election on Monday, diverging from his former boss Jeanie Buss.
Bass shared a video of the endorsement on social media. Johnson cited his 30-year friendship with Bass, along with her work on homelessness and declining homicide rates, as key reasons for his support. He praised her performance in the challenging role and expressed enthusiasm for her continued vision for the city.
Buss, the Lakers' CEO and co-owner, donated the maximum allowed $1,800 to challenger Spencer Pratt's campaign last month, according to FOX 11 in Los Angeles. Pratt, a former reality television star, and Buss attended a Lakers playoff game together over the weekend. Johnson did not address Bass's handling of the 2025 wildfires, a point of criticism from Pratt.
Pratt's campaign has highlighted Bass's response to the wildfires, which caused at least a dozen deaths and billions in damage. The March 2026 primary will determine if Bass advances to the general election for Los Angeles mayor.
