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The Lakers are hitting the campaign trail. Sort of.
Johnny Buss, the oldest son of late Lakers owner Dr. Jerry Buss, who died in 2013 while receiving cancer treatment, announced Thursday that he is running for the office of U.S. president as an independent candidate.
Buss, 67, created a campaign website and has filed documents with the Federal Elections Committee, according to the Los Angeles Times.
“I envision an America that leads with compassion, innovation, and most of all integrity,” Buss said in a statement on his website. “An America where racial equity is not just an ideal, but a lived reality for every citizen. Where our policies reflect our commitment to the planet, and where education opens doors to futures bright with promise.”
Buss is a part-owner of the Lakers, ending up with an 11% stake after his father’s 66% share was split among six children. In 2017, Johnny was involved in a public dispute with his siblings over who would become the team’s controlling owner, with Jeanie Buss prevailing as the team’s governor, a title she still holds. Johnny Buss previously served as the Lakers’ vice president of strategic development.
Buss’s announcement caps a week of sports-and-politics crossover, with Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a fellow Independent candidate, reportedly speaking with Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers about the possibility of being Independent running mates, and Stephen Curry floating a possible presidential bid after his playing career ends.
