Rick Caruso, the runner-up in the Los Angeles Mayoral race four years ago, announced he will not pursue elected office at this time.

"I am deeply grateful to the countless people who encouraged me to run, and who generously shared their time and energy," Caruso wrote in a post to X. "After much reflection and many heartfelt conversations with my family, I have decided not to pursue elected office at this time."

There are several public federal, state and local offices on the June 2, 2026, ballot, including the LA mayor's race and the gubernatorial election.

"It is a difficult decision, and I am deeply disappointed to step back from an election I believe is so critical to California's future," Caruso wrote. "Though my name will not be on a ballot, my work continues."

He said he aims to continue supporting communities in need. Following the January wildfires last year, Caruso partnered with Mayor Karen Bass and Lakers head coach JJ Redick to rebuild the Palisades Recreation Center. Caruso's shopping center, Palisades Village, was mostly spared from the wildfires but has been closed throughout the rebuilding process over the last year.

The mall announced that it will reopen in 2026. 

Caruso said he's also supported the Eaton Fire community through his nonprofit Steadfast LA. The nonprofit touts several recovery initiatives on its website, including an effort ot help Altadena rebuild.

"Public service does not require a title," he wrote. "It is, and will always be, my calling. "I remain devoted to serving our communities in every way I can, just from a different seat."

Zev Yaroslavsky, a political expert at the UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs, described Caruso's announcement to not run for either LA mayor or California governor as surprising.

"His decision to not run for either one is a bit of surprise," Yaroslavsky said. "I think he came to the conclusion that what it would take to either win a contested race here or statewide would not be a sure thing. He's in such a great position to be a great influence in the state of California and in the city of Los Angeles."