Los Angeles Mayor Campaign Funding Draws Criticism

Democratic Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass faces scrutiny following an online ad revealing her re-election campaign contributions would be matched by taxpayer dollars.

Campaign Funding Controversy

In the ad, Bass urged, “Your donation to our campaign right now is more critical than ever before.” Speaking with upbeat music in the background, she explained that LA’s “super match program” matches every qualified donation from residents 6-to-1 with city funds. This claims to amplify citizen donations significantly.

“Thanks to LA’s super match program, every qualified donation from Los Angeles residents is matched 6-to-1 by the city,” she elaborated. “But after the primary, we had to start over from scratch, so we need you to rush your matching donation right now to help fuel this campaign.”

An example given was $5 becoming $35, or $25 increasing to $175.

Concerns from Critics

Roxanne Hoge of the Republican Party of Los Angeles County criticized the system, calling it a way to benefit insiders. She compared the program’s rules to a childhood game where the owner of the ball decides the rules.

Critics noted that the program has existed since the 1990s for mayoral candidates. Some, like author Michael Shellenberger and former Trump official Richard Grenell, labeled the practice “grotesque” and “outrageous.” David McIntosh questioned the legality of a sitting mayor using city funds to match campaign contributions.

Program’s Legal Framework

The City of Los Angeles has maintained the legality of the matching program, citing codified rules since its inception. Qualified candidates must file an acceptance statement for matching funds. The program aims to amplify local engagement in elections.

To qualify, a candidate must meet several criteria: raising 300 times the maximum matchable contribution of $257, having at least 100 donors with $5 or more from Los Angeles, hosting public events, and gathering donations solely from locals. The maximum qualifying donation, after matching, totals $1,799, capping at $1.5 million for matched contributions during the general election.

Critics argue that taxpayer money should prioritize other issues, such as homelessness. The program’s continued use raises questions about fiscal priorities in Los Angeles.