The Los Angeles Olympic organizing committee, known as LA28, has recently appointed several prominent Republicans and allies of former President Donald Trump to its board. This decision has drawn significant criticism from local labor and community groups, concerned about the implications for Los Angeles’ immigrant population. Among the new appointees are former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Reince Priebus, who previously served as Chief of Staff during part of Trump’s administration.
Local community organization Unite Here Local 11, which represents hotel workers, voiced strong objections to the appointments. They argue that this new board composition jeopardizes the interests of working-class Angelenos by allowing “MAGA enthusiasts” to influence Olympic planning. The Fair Games Coalition, which includes groups like the ACLU of Southern California and the National Day Laborer Organizing Network, echoed these sentiments in a statement, emphasizing that LA28 cannot claim to represent the working-class communities of Los Angeles with such board members.
In a contrasting response, the office of Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass expressed optimism about the new appointments. The mayor highlighted her longstanding friendship with McCarthy and said she looks forward to collaborating with all board members committed to the success of the Olympic Games. Bass’s statement reflected a willingness to work with the new appointees, particularly McCarthy, whom she described as a friend with whom she has had productive relationships in both Sacramento and Congress.
LA28 declined to address the concerns raised by community groups directly. However, Chairman Casey Wasserman welcomed the new members, stating that their expertise would contribute to creating an unforgettable Olympic experience for athletes and spectators alike.
The involvement of high-profile Republicans in LA28 marks a notable shift in the committee’s dynamics and has sparked discussions about the federal government’s role in the upcoming Games. Concerns have been raised about the potential for the federal government to withhold funding, particularly in light of recent political tensions. At a City Council meeting, Councilmember Bob Blumenfield expressed apprehension that federal support might be contingent on compliance with certain political agendas, warning of possible “last-minute extortion” tactics.
This political backdrop raises significant questions about the impact of the LA28 board’s new composition on the Olympic Games. Community members, particularly those from immigrant backgrounds, fear that their interests may be overlooked as the organizing committee navigates its relationship with the federal government.
The changes within LA28 come at a time when local community groups are increasingly vocal about their rights and representation in planning major events like the Olympics. The future of the Games and its commitment to inclusivity and diversity remains under scrutiny as stakeholders from various sectors weigh in on the implications of these appointments.
As the LA28 board prepares for its responsibilities in the lead-up to the 2028 Summer Olympics, balancing the diverse interests of the city’s population with political affiliations will be a significant challenge. The organization faces the task of ensuring that the Games reflect the values and aspirations of all Angelenos, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.
