Airbnb invests millions in LA elections ahead of 2028 Olympics

Airbnb has spent millions backing Mayor Karen Bass and other local candidates in Los Angeles elections this year, according to Skift.

The company's spending focuses on influencing several issues important to its business, including a proposal to temporarily ease short-term rental restrictions during the 2028 Olympics.

The Olympics are expected to attract about 2 million visitors to the greater Los Angeles area, with a projected $4.3 billion in direct visitor spending benefiting local hotels, restaurants, and retailers, according to a study by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation commissioned by LA28.

Since 2018, only primary residences have been allowed to list on platforms like Airbnb in Los Angeles. The proposed vacation rental expansion would relax these restrictions until the end of 2028, potentially increasing Airbnb's rental supply during the Games.

The temporary rollback of restrictions could help Airbnb capitalize on the surge in visitors, but the long-term impact on local housing and regulations remains a topic of debate in the city.