Between 1781 and the conquest, Californios, or native-born residents of the Mexican territory, served as alcalde, equivalent to mayor.

[3][4][5] In 1841, the office of alcalde was abolished, instead being replaced by two Jueces de Paz (Justice of the peace).

[6] When California was conquered and Los Angeles came under the United States, the office name was changed to Mayor.

Los Angeles has a council form of government, giving the mayor the position of chief executive of the city.

[7] The mayor appoints general managers and commissioners, removes officials from city posts, and proposes a yearly budget.

[17][18] On March 3, 2015, voters passed a charter amendment to extend the term of the mayor elected in 2017 to five and a half years.