LOS ANGELES, Calif. (Fox News) — Businessman Rick Caruso is reconsidering seeking elected office after new allegations that Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass watered down a report on the Palisades Fire.

Key Facts:

• Caruso lost the 2022 Los Angeles mayoral contest to Bass.
• Caruso criticized Bass for covering up a report on the Palisades Fire.
• Sources claimed Bass was involved in altering the fire report.
• Bass’ office denied the claims, stating she only requested accuracy on weather and budget issues.

  
  Caption: Rick Caruso at The Armani Beauty Luminous Lounge at The Grove on Jan. 15, 2026 in Los Angeles, Calif. (Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty Images)

  Caruso expressed concern over the allegations and indicated he is reconsidering his decision not to pursue elected office based on the Los Angeles Times report.

  
  Caption: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass prior to speaking to media in support of journalist Don Lemon outside federal court on Jan. 30, 2026, in Los Angeles, Calif. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

  Bass’ office criticized the Times’ report as muckraking journalism and denied any wrongdoing on the mayor’s part.