LA Homelessness Increases, Posing Challenges for Mayor Karen Bass
Los Angeles has experienced a 3.4% increase in homelessness over the past year, with the number of people living outdoors rising by 7.9%. This development comes at a critical time for Mayor Karen Bass, who is facing a reelection challenge. Despite previous declines in homelessness, Bass attributes the recent increase to federal and state funding cuts and disputes over mental health funding with county officials. She maintains that significant progress has been made since 2023, citing the success of her Inside Safe program, which has moved thousands into interim housing. The new data, first reported by FOX 11, highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness in Los Angeles, a key issue in Bass's political agenda. 
