Decision Maker

Karen Bass

Former Los Angeles City Mayor

California

Karen Ruth Bass is an American politician and social worker who has served as the 43rd mayor of Los Angeles since 2022. Born in 1953, she is a member of the Democratic Party. Before becoming mayor, Bass had a notable political career, serving in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2011 to 2022. She also held leadership roles as a member of the California State Assembly from 2004 to 2010, including serving as Speaker from 2008 to 2010. Additionally, she was the Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus from 2019 to 2021. Bass's educational background includes a Bachelor's in Health Sciences from California State University, Dominguez Hills; a Master's in Social Work; and a Certificate in Physician Assistant from the University of Southern California.