Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has ignited controversy by advocating for taxpayer-funded dental care for drug users, arguing that new teeth are essential for them to succeed. Speaking at a forum on Monday at the Original Pantry Cafe alongside other mayoral candidates, Bass discussed funding for the city's homelessness crisis as part of a two-day event.
During the discussion, Bass emphasized the link between methamphetamine use and tooth decay, stating, 'How many people that you meet that are unhoused don't have teeth at all? They don't have teeth. Why? Because meth rots your teeth. You can't succeed without teeth. So there needs to be comprehensive healthcare provided to people.'
However, Bass has yet to announce any formal initiatives aimed at healthcare for the homeless. Her $300 million 'Inside Safe' initiative, according to the city website, has moved more than 5,000 people off the streets and into motels.
The comments have sparked significant backlash online. Writer Chris Gore reposted a clip on X, advocating against Bass's reelection, stating, 'It's not the government's job to be responsible for people's terrible decisions. Perhaps stop giving out free needles and drugs?' Tony Kinnett, National Correspondent for the Daily Signal, echoed that 'tax dollars shouldn't be paying for your bad decision.' Alexa Henning, Chief of Staff to Tulsi Gabbard, criticized Bass for misplaced priorities, writing, 'LA residents: please help us rebuild our homes lost in the fires. Bass: best I can do is free dental care for meth heads.'
Bass was joined by fellow mayoral candidates Councilwoman Nithya Raman and entrepreneur Adam Miller, who criticized her initiatives while promoting their own plans, as reported by CBS. The 'Hotcakes and Housing' event was hosted by Hope the Mission, a non-profit inviting those impacted by homelessness to question candidates.
Mayoral challenger Spencer Pratt, who declined the invitation, has been critical of Bass's approach. According to the LA Times, Pratt vows to address the root causes, stating, 'The reality is no matter how many beds you give these people, they are on super meth, they are on fentanyl.'
With the mayoral election approaching, primaries will be held on June 2 and the general election on November 3. According to the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, over 67,000 people in Los Angeles are experiencing homelessness as of the end of 2025. The Daily Mail has contacted Mayor Bass for additional comment.
