Mayor Karen Bass released her first general election campaign ad today, with the theme of “I Don’t Run,” highlighting her stand against a federal immigration raid in MacArthur Park and contending she will always protect Angelenos.
“When someone comes after your family, you don’t hesitate, you stand up, you fight,” Bass says in the ad, speaking about last year’s federal immigration raid, during which dozens of federal immigration agents and National Guard troops descended on MacArthur Park, where they were met by protesters. Bass also showed up at the scene, calling on the federal authorities to leave the area.
“I met them there. Looked them in the eye. Told them to get out. And they did,” Bass says in the ad. Some of the federal troops were seen marching in formation — some on horseback – through the park, but there were no reports of any arrests during the operation.
According to Bass’ campaign, the ad – in both English and Spanish – is aimed at “voters of color that have delivered Bass’ strongest support throughout the race.”
“I don’t run from a fight,” Bass says in the spot. “Not then, not now. Because Los Angeles is my home. Los Angeles is my family. And if they come for us – any of us – they’ll answer to me.”
On Monday, Bass’ mayoral race opponent, City Councilwoman Nithya Raman, released her first campaign ad, highlighting her plan to support the local entertainment industry.
Narrated by actor Bob Odenkirk of “Better Call Saul,” the 30-second spot aired twice during Monday’s pre-Emmys newscast on NBC4, then again during the late-night post-Emmys newscast, and again during the “Today” show the following morning.
The Raman ad emulates Hollywood’s familiar “For Your Consideration” format and introduced Raman as the candidate who will bring needed change to City Hall, make Los Angeles more affordable, and bring the urgency and proactive leadership needed to keep entertainment jobs in Los Angeles.
“The entertainment industry isn’t just the creative engine of Los Angeles; it’s an economic engine for the entire city. Film and television production supports restaurants, dry cleaners, hardware stores, hotels, prop houses, rental yards, post-production shops and thousands of small businesses,” Raman said in a statement.
“City Hall should be fighting every day to keep those jobs here, instead of watching passively as Hollywood is hollowed out. As mayor, I will make Los Angeles a place where productions can stay, workers can build stable careers, and the next generation of storytellers can afford to live,” Raman added.
