Bass and Raman Final Debate: Key Moments

Closing Arguments

Nithya Raman highlighted her stance against Mayor Karen Bass, labeling her as absent in critical times. Raman emphasized that Los Angeles cannot afford another term plagued by mismanagement and excuses. She promised a functional and affordable city that welcomes dreams.

Bass defended her public service record, focusing on her efforts to combat homelessness and her opposition to Trump’s policies during federal intervention in L.A. She challenged Raman’s voting record on issues like encampments near schools and police staffing.

Addressing ‘Problem Properties’

Alejandro Ortiz raised concerns over the city’s handling of recurring problems at historic properties. Raman criticized departmental communications and vowed to enforce faster actions against negligent building owners.

Bass explained her budget initiatives to expedite property clearing, lamenting the council’s removal of allocated funds.

Film Industry Job Preservation

Amidst the decline of film jobs, Bass underscored her appointing a film czar to streamline local production processes. Raman suggested unlimited tax credits to incentivize staying local.

Immigration Policy and Advocacy

Questions arose about Bass’s budget omitting funding for legal assistance programs for undocumented immigrants, which she attributed to potential philanthropic support. Raman pledged to prevent data sharing with ICE.

Both candidates agreed on resisting federal policies affecting local immigrant communities.

Mansion Tax Controversy

The debate touched on Measure ULA’s impact on apartment developments. Raman and Bass have shown alignment on reform efforts to alleviate taxes affecting housing affordability.

Fire Preparedness and Response

Bass apologized for absenteeism during past fires, asserting improved readiness through implementing recommendations. Raman criticized the lack of preemptive measures in vulnerable areas.

Support for Fire Department Budget

Both candidates backed Measure FD to increase sales taxes for fire services, emphasizing the need for expanded firefighting resources.

License Plate Reader Debate

Raman expressed skepticism over mass surveillance technologies, whereas Bass endorsed their crime prevention utilities but criticized the data-sharing practices of Flock cameras.

Addressing Drug and Homelessness Issues

Bass argued for expanded addiction treatment facilities alongside anti-drug raids. Raman proposed a comprehensive approach ensuring laws are enforced to tackle homelessness.

Police Shooting Concerns

Bass and Raman discussed the increase in police shootings, advocating for better transparency and training regarding use-of-force policies.

Homelessness and Public Safety

Bass defended her Inside Safe initiative, while Raman criticized its high costs and inefficiency. Bass highlighted that Raman had previously supported similar initiatives.

Upcoming Election Challenges

Bass emphasized the pivotal choice voters face in the election, questioning Raman’s record on police and encampments. Bass addressed concerns over her diminishing Latino voter support.