Raman Advances to Los Angeles Mayoral Runoff Against Bass

Los Angeles City Council member Nithya Raman will face Mayor Karen Bass in a November runoff. Both candidates are Democrats and former allies. This unexpected outcome follows the exclusion of Spencer Pratt, a Republican and former reality TV star, from the race. Despite significant public interest, Pratt did not secure enough votes.

Raman entered the mayoral race late, having initially supported Bass for reelection. She was elected to the council with backing from the Democratic Socialists of America. This election will explore whether Los Angeles, a city with significant Democratic support, wants a shift further to the political left. Key issues include homelessness, urban infrastructure, and housing costs.

Historically, this race is noteworthy. Bass is the first Black woman to serve as mayor. If elected, Raman would be the first South Asian woman in this role. Raman stated, “If you’re as frustrated by the broken status quo as I am, I hope you’ll join our movement to build a city that works for everyone.” She criticized the city’s priorities, claiming they favor powerful interests over working people.

Douglas Herman, a strategist for Bass, commented on the challenge posed by Raman, who favors policies like reducing the police force and allowing encampments near schools. Despite Pratt initially leading in the vote count, Raman consistently gained votes, surpassing Pratt with a 22,000-vote lead by Monday.

The race is one of two major political contests in California, alongside the governor’s race. Democrat Xavier Becerra has advanced there; his opponent will be either Republican Steve Hilton or Democrat Tom Steyer. The mayoral race is nonpartisan, with candidates listed without party affiliation.

Bass received less than 35% of the vote, showing potential vulnerability as an incumbent. She represents the Democratic establishment, supported by figures like Gov. Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, and Nancy Pelosi.

Raman, in her first citywide campaign, aims to increase housing, revitalize entertainment jobs, and improve city services. “What we are doing right now is just not working,” Raman stated, criticizing current strategies for homelessness.

Determining the November opponent for Bass took nearly a week due to California’s slow vote-counting process. Mail ballots are accepted if postmarked by Election Day and received within seven days. Los Angeles processes ballots in the order received, delaying final results.

Data indicates many Democrats returned their ballots late, which improved results for Bass and Raman. Raman’s positions have evolved. Initially against banning encampments near schools, she moderated her stance, opting not to block such zones if elected.

Raman’s views on policing have also shifted. Previously advocating a reduced police force, she did not back the 2023 police contract due to cost concerns. Currently, she supports maintaining the police department’s size at around 8,600 officers.

For Raman to secure a win, she needs broader support beyond her existing base. “It’s not impossible, but she must expand beyond her ideological base,” said Democratic consultant Bill Carrick, noting Bass’s vulnerability.

Both Raman and Pratt attracted voters unhappy with the current administration. Tanika Vickers, from a housing nonprofit, shared her frustration with tax spending and supported Raman for her capability to address city needs. “We are all looking for change,” Vickers remarked.