Austin Beutner Pushes Forward Amid Heartbreaking Personal Loss

Los Angeles mayoral candidate Austin Beutner is pressing on with his campaign despite enduring the sudden death of his 22-year-old daughter, Emily Beutner. The tragic loss has drawn widespread support from both the community and social media users.

Tragic Loss of a Young Life

Emily Beutner passed away on January 6 in Los Angeles, according to the LA County Medical Examiner. The official cause of death is currently marked as “deferred” pending further investigation.

Austin shared a statement, saying, “My family has experienced the unimaginable loss of our beloved daughter. We ask for privacy and your prayers at this time.”

Campaign Continues Amid Grief

Despite his loss, Austin has continued his mayoral campaign. His team provides updates on his official X account, highlighting community initiatives such as Steadfast LA, which supports fire victims.

Austin remains focused on key city issues, including affordability, public safety, and quality of life, as he prepares to challenge Mayor Bass in the June 2026 election.

A Track Record of Leadership

Austin Beutner has a long history of public service:

First Deputy Mayor of LA under Antonio Villaraigosa (2010–2013)
Superintendent of Los Angeles Unified School District (2018–2021), guiding the nation’s second-largest school system through COVID-19 challenges
Served at the U.S. State Department under President Bill Clinton, leading efforts to transition Russia’s economy
Co-founded Evercore Partners and later served as publisher and CEO of the Los Angeles Times and The San Diego Union-Tribune

He also championed Proposition 28, securing approximately $1 billion annually for arts and music education in California.

Commitment to Los Angeles

Austin describes himself as no ordinary candidate and emphasizes collaboration with residents to tackle LA’s toughest challenges. He announced his candidacy via YouTube on October 13, 2025, citing his goal to make Los Angeles safer, more affordable, and more livable.

“I credit Mayor Bass, in a funny way, for inspiring me. She said we need to turn the city around. I agree, and I intend to do just that,” Austin stated.

Parallel Tragedy: Darren Bailey’s Family

In a similar heartbreaking moment, Illinois gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey lost his son, daughter-in-law, and two grandchildren in a helicopter crash on October 22, 2025. Their only surviving grandson, Finnley Tate, 10, was not on the flight and is now surrounded by family.

The Baileys held a celebration of life on November 3, 2025, and asked for memorial donations to support Finnley’s future. The National Transportation Safety Board continues to investigate the crash.

Finding Strength in Community and Faith

Both the Beutners and the Baileys have drawn strength from their faith, family, and public support. While navigating unimaginable losses, they continue to engage with their communities and focus on the futures of those they still hold dear.