Former LAUSD Superintendent Austin Beutner is expected to challenge Mayor Karen Bass when she runs for reelection in 2026, according to multiple reports out Sunday.

The 65-year-old investment banker and philanthropist, who ran the city’s school district from 2018-21, is planning to announce his candidacy Monday, according to the Los Angeles Times. ABC7 also reported that Beutner would announce his candidacy.

Beutner questioned Bass’ record on crime and development issues, but focused his most withering criticism on her response to January’s devastating Palisades Fire, telling the newspaper that the city showed a “failure of leadership” as historically strong winds spread flames through the expensive coastal enclave, gutting thousands of homes and killing 12 people.

The fire damaged Beut

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