Latinos favored Rick Caruso in the LA mayoral primary. But they may not swing his way in November

LOS ANGELES — As Los Angeles residents decide who will be their mayor, Rep. Karen Bass is trying to build on her 7-point advantage in the primary over billionaire developer Rick Caruso.

But in precincts with large Latino populations, the primary results were different — Caruso generally came out ahead of Bass, according to a Los Angeles Times analysis.

While Latino voters in L.A. have historically leaned progressive, they can have a conservative streak on some issues, including policing. Party affiliation is relatively weak among Latinos, with some identifying as Democrats but willing to cross over for candidates who speak to them on issues, experts said.