Bass appoints LA28 executive Chris Thompson as chief of staff

Mayor-elect Karen Bass announced one of her administration’s central roles on Tuesday, appointing LA28 senior vice president Christopher Thompson as her chief of staff.

Thompson, who will also guide Bass’ transition, will start on Monday. He is the first major recruit announced by the new administration.

“My number one priority is building a team that will be ready from day one to move our city forward,” Bass said in a press release that touted Thompson’s experience in both the public and private sectors.

The term of the mayor-elect begins on December 12. She had previously invited all staff in Mayor Eric Garcetti’s office to stay on until April, according to a letter sent last week – an unusual move intended to provide stability for a short transition period.

Thompson currently leads government relations for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games Organizing Committee. He began his career in Congress, eventually serving as chief of staff to Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-California).

After leaving Capitol Hill in 2013, Thompson spent nearly seven years in various roles at Edison International and Southern California Edison before joining LA28 in 2020, according to his LinkedIn profile.

“The people of this city spoke loud and clear as they won a game-changing victory for Mayor-elect Bass,” Thompson said in a statement. “She presented a clear vision and plan to address the homelessness crisis and make our city safer and more affordable for everyone. I look forward to helping him realize this vision.