Los Angeles – Representative Ken Bass did not appear for a congressional hearing on the city’s homelessness spending, stating that the investigation was driven by politics. The hearing, convened by Republican congressional leaders, was intended to review how California manages regional issues and public finances, with a focus on the allocation of funds for homelessness services.
Bass’s absence was noted by staff and reporters covering the session. In a brief statement released after the scheduled start time, he asserted that the probe was politically motivated and that his decision to skip the hearing reflected his objection to the premise of the inquiry. No additional comments were provided regarding the specifics of the homelessness budget or the broader financial oversight effort.
The hearing was part of a series of examinations ordered by Republican leaders in the House to assess California’s handling of a range of regional challenges, including infrastructure, public safety, and the growing homelessness crisis. Lawmakers have expressed concern that state and local authorities may not be using federal funds effectively, prompting a push for greater transparency and accountability.
Representative Burchett, who was also slated to testify, participated in the proceedings. He addressed questions about the city’s budgeting process and the outcomes of recent homelessness initiatives, emphasizing ongoing efforts to coordinate with state agencies and nonprofit partners.
The session proceeded without Bass, with committee members questioning officials about the criteria used to allocate resources and the mechanisms for tracking program results. While the hearing concluded with a call for further data collection, the absence of Bass underscored the partisan tension surrounding the review. Republican leaders indicated that the inquiry would continue, aiming to produce a report on California’s fiscal stewardship of regional programs.
The episode adds to a growing dialogue over the role of federal oversight in local homelessness strategies, highlighting the divergent views of lawmakers on how best to address the complex issue.