Magic Johnson Announces Endorsement In Heated L.A. Mayoral Race

NBA legend Magic Johnson has announced his endorsement in the heated Los Angeles mayoral race.

The race, which features former reality TV star Spencer Pratt, has gained national attention. Pratt, who starred on "The Hills," is running against the incumbent, Karen Bass. Bass has been under scrutiny for the past several years, due to her handling of the Southern California fires.

Many people, including several prominent athletes, lost their homes in the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires. Pratt is among those who lost a lot due to the fires.

This weekend, Johnson - a five-time NBA champion with the Los Angeles Lakers and an owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers - announced his official endorsement.

Johnson announced his endorsement for Karen Bass. Johnson cited his 30-year friendship with Bass and her actions on homelessness and lowering the homicide rates as the main reasons for his endorsement.

"She's doing a tremendous job. Mayor Bass has to have a second term and I'm excited to say that," Johnson said. "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."

Johnson did not mention Bass' handling of the 2025 L.A. wildfires.

Former NFL star wanted to run for L.A. Mayor

Former NFL star Marcellus Wiley was among those wanting to run for L.A. Mayor earlier in 2026.

"I want to be the mayor of L.A. and see how that goes," he said. "I'm trying to stay still and raise these kids, but at the same time, help make an imprint on our city to bring us closer together."

He added that he wouldn't "cop out" by running as an independent.

"I don't take the cop out of independent," Wiley said. "People say, ‘I'm independent.' No, you ain't. Shut it." When asked to explain his political thinking, he went back to Compton: "If I didn't gang bang, if I didn't choose Blood, you think I'm picking Democrat or Republican? I'm not loyal like that. I'm not a group. I am me."

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This story was originally published May 11, 2026 at 12:41 PM.