The Next Mayor of Los Angeles Could Be Gay Republican Kevin James

Republican advertising strategist Fred Davis has already raised $500,000 in support of James, the Los Angeles Times reports. While only 16.3% of Angelenos are registered Republicans, Davis says his ads will portray James as an outsider who was not involved in creating the city's beaurocratic and financial woes. Democratic challengers for the May 6 election include City Controller Wendy Greuel and city council members Eric Garcetti and Jan Perry.

"If private citizens want to step up and support my campaign, or...get involved in this race, I'm willing to have any kind of support that's willing to come my way," James said.

James was also the co-chair of AIDS Project Los Angeles, and was active in that organization from 1995 to 2000.

With 3.8 million residents, Los Angeles could be America's largest city with a gay mayor if James is chosen. Nearby San Diego nearly elected Carl DeMaio, also a gay Republican, as its mayor earlier this month. He was defeated by city council member Bob Filner.