Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has stated that the city's extensive pothole problem and crumbling street infrastructure are not her fault, attributing the issues to decades of neglect. In an interview with REAL 92.3, Bass said the potholes and broken sidewalks did not appear solely because she is currently the mayor, emphasizing that the infrastructure has been deteriorating for approximately 30 years.
Despite her initial assertion, Bass acknowledged that filling potholes falls under her purview. She reported that the city addressed over 20,000 potholes following the last rainfall. However, her comments have drawn criticism, with some public figures and groups questioning her stance.
Political activist April Silverman criticized Bass and her opponent, suggesting that politicians often disavow responsibility for city problems while simultaneously campaigning to fix them. Filmmaker and actress Justine Bateman expressed disdain, stating that politicians should not joke about detrimental city conditions and that Bass should directly address the infrastructure issues as her responsibility.
The progressive group Streets for All also criticized Bass, asserting that while the aging infrastructure may not be her fault, her budget decisions to cut funding for Street Services and LADOT have accelerated its deterioration. Former mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt has also released a video highlighting the city's neglected infrastructure.
Earlier, Bass was observed attempting to address a pothole, but a parked car obstructed the repair. Signs were subsequently posted to deter parking at the location, and the pothole was fixed the following day after the car was moved. Bass is currently seeking reelection and is running against socialist councilwoman Nithya Raman, who has made enhancing the city's transportation system and infrastructure a key part of her campaign.