Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass received an endorsement from the International Alliance of Theatrical State Employees, the union representing grips, gaffers, and other film and television workers, according to Deadline. The California IATSE Council announced the backing Wednesday.
"Karen Bass has been fighting for film and television workers her whole career," the union said in a statement, citing her labor record and advocacy for the entertainment industry.
IATSE members work across Los Angeles's film, television, and streaming production ecosystem. Their endorsement carries weight in a city where content creation is central to the economy. The union specifically noted Bass's role in writing the state's original labor protections.
In primary races, organized voter blocs can determine outcomes. A union with members across studios, production companies, and independent sets has real electoral power in Los Angeles. The primary takes place next month.
