Mayor Karen Bass - Democratic Mayors

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass gave her State of the City Address, sharing that while there is still much work to be done, the state of the city is stronger because of work done to disrupt the status quo and work to lock arms with all levels of government.

Mayor Bass highlighted how her new approach has impacted how the city addresses homelessness, public safety, and operates city hall. Compared to 2022, the city in 2023 helped thousands more unhoused residents come inside, homicides and violent crime went down, and 100,000 more service requests were completed.

Regarding homelessness, the Mayor recommitted to unprecedented urgency in addressing this crisis, describing the transition from the rescue phase to the recovery phase of an emergency. She also highlighted her efforts to address LAPD hiring and retention and how her budget proposal for the next year will preserve core services and serve as a “reset” to improve future budgets.

Mayor Bass said that to boost downtown and the city’s economy, she supported exploring the modernization of the Los Angeles Convention Center and called on the private sector and philanthropy to join a new capital campaign to house people experiencing homelessness called LA4LA. She also announced new climate action efforts to help the city become a 100% clean energy city by 2035.

Watch the Mayor’s full address here.

More State of the City Addresses

St. Louis, Missouri

Mayor Cara Spencer

St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer delivered her first State of the City Address, declaring that the state of the city is promising despite significant challenges and emphasizing a government focused on the basics of core services, public safety, and growth. Reflecting on her first year in office, the Mayor pointed to new and exciting milestones, while underscoring that real progress is measured through consistent, tangible improvements.

Newport News, Virginia

Mayor Phillip Jones

Mayor Phillip Jones delivered his State of the City Address, outlining a bold vision for the future of Newport News. In an address highlighting progress and forward-looking initiatives, Mayor Jones announced policies designed to support working families and strengthen Newport News’ position as a leader in Hampton Roads and across Virginia.

Beaverton, Oregon

Mayor Lacey Beaty

Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty delivered her State of the City Address in March, centered on the theme “Showing Up, Moving Forward,” and grounded in a candid assessment of both local progress and broader uncertainty. She spoke directly to the national moment, affirming Beaverton’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and civil rights, while emphasizing that the city’s strength comes from residents who stay engaged and invested in their community.