Nithya Raman: A Passion for L.A.

Nithya Raman, 45, has been a member of the Los Angeles City Council since 2020, representing a district that includes Los Feliz, the Hollywood Hills, and Sherman Oaks. Her entry into city politics came after defeating incumbent David Ryu. Recruited again in 2024, Raman continues to be impactful in her role.

Born in India, Raman emigrated to the U.S. at six years old. Her academic journey is notable, holding a degree from Harvard and a master’s from MIT. After moving to Los Angeles, Raman took a proactive stance on homelessness, founding a nonprofit for outreach. Her legislative focus on the council included tenants’ rights and rent stabilization. In 2023, she chaired the council’s Housing and Homelessness Committee before losing her position in a council reshuffle.

In a recent interview with The Times, Raman reflected on her accomplishments and challenges. Her legislative work has been substantial, notably spearheading tenant protections. Under her leadership, eviction protections expanded and relocation support increased. A system was instituted that required landlords to notify the city of evictions, allowing the council to offer proactive help to those affected.

Leading the tenant protections over the years has been my biggest accomplishment.

Raman’s tenure has not been without its difficulties. Her sudden entry into the mayoral race caused tension among council colleagues, who showed strong support for Mayor Karen Bass. Raman has highlighted areas where she feels Bass’s response has been lacking, notably referencing perceived mismanagement during the Palisades fire crisis.

Raman admits some of her own missteps, particularly around her effort to reform the mansion tax under Measure ULA. She acknowledged a lack of sufficient outreach, leading to confusion and friction.

Before announcing her mayoral ambitions, Raman endorsed Bass. She emphasized the necessity for collaboration with the mayor’s office to secure district resources due to budget reductions.

On shifting views about police funding, Raman revealed that her understanding of city finances led to a change in perspective. Her votes on the council now reflect support for maintaining police staffing levels, balancing budget constraints with the need for public safety services.

The issue of homelessness remains critical in her district. Raman noted areas like Hollywood as consistent hot spots for encampments. Despite some clear-outs, repopulation occurs. She recognizes the importance of coordinated efforts to help those facing substance-related challenges and suggests models that avoid criminalization while offering support services.

Raman engages with various organizations in Los Angeles, appreciating partnerships like that with the Democratic Socialists of America. Though some view “co-governance” as controversial, she sees it as integral to representation.

Reflecting on Los Angeles’s political history, Raman admires various leaders for diverse contributions. Their efforts in uniting the city, charter reform, and transportation influence her leadership aspirations.

Raman is committed to Los Angeles, emphasizing her dedication as a public servant. She stresses that her love and concern for the city drive her candidacy for mayor.