The New Yorker Radio Hour: Mayor Karen Bass on Marines in Los Angeles Hosted by David Remnick | Released: July 25, 2025

In this compelling episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour, hosted by David Remnick and co-produced by WNYC Studios and The New Yorker, Mayor Karen Bass of Los Angeles delves into the multifaceted crises facing her city. From federal interventions targeting immigrant communities to the relentless challenges posed by climate change, Bass provides an in-depth analysis of her administration's strategies and the broader implications for Los Angeles.

1. Introduction and Context (00:00 - 00:39)

David Remnick sets the stage by highlighting the current situation in Los Angeles—a city grappling with significant federal interventions aimed at its substantial immigrant population. He underscores the tension between federal mandates and local governance, setting up the conversation with Mayor Bass.

2. Federal Intervention and Deployment of Troops (00:39 - 03:28)

Mayor Karen Bass begins by addressing the recent deployment of federal troops, including the National Guard and Marines, into Los Angeles—a move orchestrated by the Trump administration amidst protests against ICE raids.

• Quote: “We haven't had any raids in a few days, and so I'm doing just fine.” (01:59)

Bass criticizes the utilization of the National Guard, emphasizing their misuse and the lack of effective action during deployments.

• Quote: “They are resentful because they know they're just props. I mean, there's a big article in the paper today talking about how they're doing nothing.” (03:00)

She describes the situation as a federal seizure of power, highlighting the conflict between federal authorities and local leadership striving to protect their communities.

3. Los Angeles as a Sanctuary City (03:28 - 04:54)

Bass explains Los Angeles' long-standing status as a sanctuary city, a policy rooted in decades-old strategies to protect immigrant communities from exploitation and fear.

• Quote: “The Los Angeles Police Department would not cooperate with immigration enforcement.” (04:00)

She elucidates how these policies have evolved to foster trust between law enforcement and immigrant populations, thereby enhancing community safety and cooperation.

4. Relationship with the Federal Government (04:54 - 08:02)

Discussing her interactions with the Trump administration, Bass reveals a deterioration in communication and collaboration.

• Quote: “I refer to it as the federal seizure of power from our government, from our governor taking over the National Guard and deploying them inappropriately.” (05:04)

Bass expresses disappointment in Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, whom she previously respected, noting a shift in her stance due to recent actions against Los Angeles.

5. Impact of ICE Raids and Legal Actions (08:02 - 13:19)

The conversation shifts to the alarming scale of ICE raids and their ramifications on the community. Los Angeles has joined an ACLU lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of these detentions.

• Quote: “We don't know how many people... have been denied access to legal counsel. They have been denied access to their family members.” (12:21)

Bass highlights the human toll, emphasizing the fear and uncertainty inflicted on families, especially within Latino communities.

6. Specific Incident: MacArthur Park Raid (13:19 - 15:24)

Bass provides a detailed account of the ICE raid at MacArthur Park, a historically troubled area with significant gang and drug-related issues.

• Quote: “ICE pulled guns on healthcare workers that were in the park trying to help the people who were addicted get into treatment.” (15:24)

She criticizes the spectacle of military presence in a tranquil community space, underscoring the disruption and fear it caused, particularly among children witnessing the events.

7. Economic and Workforce Impact (15:43 - 21:10)

Bass discusses the broader economic implications of the federal crackdown, particularly on the immigrant workforce essential to Los Angeles' industries.

• Quote: “We have 40% of the nation's goods come through our ports in Los Angeles. We have the largest port in the Western Hemisphere.” (20:20)

She argues that the raids not only destabilize families but also hinder the city's economic recovery, especially in sectors like construction, which rely heavily on immigrant labor.

8. Climate Change and Urban Resilience (21:10 - 24:36)

Shifting focus, Bass addresses the pressing issue of climate change and its tangible effects on Los Angeles, including unprecedented weather events and wildfires.

• Quote: “We are gonna have to learn how to deal with weather events that we have no experience with.” (22:31)

She outlines her administration's proactive measures to promote resilient rebuilding, advocating for incentives and education to ensure structures can withstand future climate-related disasters.

9. Personal Reflections and Challenges as Mayor (24:36 - 27:14)

Bass opens up about the personal toll of her role, balancing professional responsibilities with personal losses, such as her brother losing his home in the Malibu fires.

• Quote: “Being out of the country was very painful... my brother lost his home.” (25:24)

She reflects on the emotional resilience required to lead a city through continuous crises, emphasizing her dedication and the importance of focusing on long-term goals despite daily challenges.

10. Advice for Future Leaders and Conclusion (27:14 - 29:44)

Concluding the interview, Bass offers insights for upcoming political figures, referencing the potential mayoral candidate in New York City facing Trump’s threats.

• Quote: “New Yorkers are fighting is in their DNA, and I can't imagine that New Yorkers would put up with it.” (29:17)

She expresses hope for maintaining the temporary restraining order against federal interventions and applauds the community's resilience.

David Remnick wraps up the conversation by thanking Mayor Bass for her candid and insightful discourse on the intricate dynamics affecting Los Angeles.

Notable Quotes:

• “The National Guard was just deployed to guard a building. They were not involved in crowd control.” (03:33)
• “I signed up for it because we had a massive humanitarian crisis on our streets.” (25:27)
• “Providing incentives... accessing rebuilding in a resilient way.” (23:23)

Key Takeaways:

• Federal vs. Local Governance: The deployment of federal troops in Los Angeles represents a significant clash between national mandates and local policies aimed at protecting vulnerable communities.
• Human and Economic Impact: ICE raids have profound effects on families and the local economy, particularly in sectors reliant on immigrant labor.
• Climate Resilience: Los Angeles is prioritizing resilient infrastructure and proactive climate strategies to mitigate future disasters.
• Personal Leadership: Mayor Bass emphasizes resilience and dedication in leadership, balancing professional responsibilities with personal adversities.

This episode offers a nuanced exploration of the intersecting challenges of immigration enforcement, economic vitality, and climate change, all through the lens of Los Angeles' leadership. Mayor Karen Bass provides a poignant narrative that underscores the complexities of governing a diverse and dynamic metropolis in turbulent times.