USC trustee will not run in 2013 mayoral race


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USC Trustee and developer Rick Caruso will not run for L.A. mayor in 2013, he announced in a statement Thursday night.

Caruso, the namesake for USC’s Catholic Center, is known for developing the Grove and the Americana at Brand shopping centers and for serving as a former city commissioner.

“As a lifelong Angeleno, I have dedicated my career to supporting Los Angeles through world-class developments, creating jobs and economic benefits and in working with civic and community organizations throughout Los Angeles,” Caruso said. “I look forward to continuing to contribute to our city by focusing on endeavors that enrich the lives of the people in this city.”

Caruso, who hired political consultants to help him with his decision, also considered challenging Antonio Villaraigosa in 2009, according to the Los Angeles Times.

He also resigned from the Coliseum Commission in September 2011, after worries that his position on the panel conflicted with his role as a trustee for USC, which had expressed interest in controlling the stadium.