LOS ANGELES (KNX) — Facing backlash for brushing off the leaders of an L.A.-based Latino Democratic club during the KNX News Mayoral Debate, Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) apologized Friday for suggesting opponent Rick Caruso paid for the group's endorsement.
In a statement, Bass apologized to Avance Democratic Club Friday, saying, "I shouldn't have said what I said. I sincerely apologize to Avance and its membership."
Early on Friday, leaders of the club called Bass to apologize for saying, "How much did you pay for it?" directly after Caruso touted the endorsement he received from Avance.
According to the group's website, from its inception in 2015, their mission has been to "build Latino political power, increase Latino voter registration and civic participation, cultivate and develop Latino political leaders, and support candidates who champion the Avance agenda."
The group's roughly 800 members reportedly voted to back Caruso to the tune of 85%.
As for the accusation, when asked if Caruso has ever given money to Avance, Nilza Serrano, President of Avance, stated Caruso was one of several political candidates the club asked for a donation to sponsor an event.
While Bass gave no money, Caruso gave $5,000, she said.
Bass is taking responsibility for her comment, saying, "Accountability and transparency starts with me, and when I make a mistake, I own it."
The debate may be over, but the race isn't. With the latest polling from L.A. Times showing Bass doing better than Caruso among likely-to-vote Latinos, Caruso has a slightly higher favorability with the demographic overall.
If you missed the live debate, you can watch it on-demand here.
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