Magic Johnson Endorses LA Mayor Karen Bass Despite Living Outside City Limits

Basketball Hall of Famer Magic Johnson drew criticism after endorsing Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in her reelection bid.

Bass shared a video of the endorsement on her social media. Johnson cited his 30-year friendship with Bass, along with her efforts on homelessness and reducing homicide rates, as reasons for his support.

The former Los Angeles Lakers star faced backlash for weighing in on the race while residing in Beverly Hills. That city is not among the 114 neighborhoods eligible to vote in the Los Angeles mayoral election.

"She’s doing a tremendous job. Mayor Bass has to have a second term and I’m excited to say that," Johnson said in the video. "Listen, you took on a tough job here and you’ve done a fabulous job and all of us appreciate your effort and what you’re doing and we look forward to helping you continue your mission and the things that you have in store – your vision for the city."

Bass welcomed the backing. "Magic Johnson has been my friend for over 30 years. His belief in how I'm changing Los Angeles means everything to me," she wrote on X. "Magic has poured his heart into this city long before anyone asked him to — through investment, through community, through showing up. I am deeply honored to have his endorsement."

Johnson made no mention of a key issue boosting challenger Spencer Pratt: Bass's handling of the 2025 wildfires, which killed at least a dozen people and caused billions in damage. Pratt has kept up attacks on her wildfire response.

Last month, Lakers owner Jeanie Buss donated $1,800 to Pratt's campaign, the legal maximum, according to FOX 11 in Los Angeles. The former "Hills" star was also seen with Buss at a Lakers playoff game over the weekend.