Some observers had anticipated that Bass would select either a woman or a Latino to fill the chief's office -- both would be firsts. But in the end she opted for McDonnell, who is white. But Bass defended her selection, saying public safety was her top priority.

Ahead of the news conference, there were several news reports and speculation she would be announcing the appointment. In early September, Bass told the Los Angeles Times she intended to make a decision on the hire by the end of the month,

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass announced Friday that Jim McDonnell will be the city’s next police chief, ending a months-long search after Michel Moore said he was retiring from the department’s top job.