Los Angeles Mayoral Runoff: Nithya Raman vs. Karen Bass

Los Angeles is set for an interesting mayoral runoff in November. Progressive city council member Nithya Raman will face Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. This comes as an unexpected contest between two Democrats who were once political allies in a city nearing 4 million residents.

The elimination of Spencer Pratt, a Republican and former reality TV personality known from “The Hills,” concludes his bid. Despite garnering national attention due to his celebrity and stance against liberal governance in a Democrat-dominated city, his campaign did not secure enough votes.

Raman, having initially supported Bass for reelection, joined the race last minute. Backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, her candidacy challenges whether the largely Democratic city desires a shift further left to address persistent issues such as homelessness, deteriorating streets, and rising rental costs.

The race is also historic. Bass is the first Black woman in her position, and Raman could be the first South Asian woman to hold the office.

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. Raman stated in her campaign message.

Raman criticizes City Hall for prioritizing political gains instead of working people’s needs. She cites higher rents and poor city services as ongoing issues. Conversely, Bass’s campaign, represented by strategist Douglas Herman, is ready for the contest, pointing to criticisms of Raman’s policies.

Raman’s vote tally consistently improved over Pratt’s post-election, with late mail ballots boosting her to second place by over 22,000 votes on Monday.

The mayoral race inaugurates itself as one of California’s major elections. Meanwhile, Xavier Becerra, a Democrat, advances in the governor’s race but awaits his opponent between Republican Steve Hilton and fellow Democrat Tom Steyer. Though Hilton leads, Steyer narrowed the gap with recent vote updates.

Technically nonpartisan, the ballot did not list party affiliations beside candidates’ names. Bass, the incumbent, received less than 35% of votes, highlighting vulnerability. Her campaign includes support from Governor Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris, and Nancy Pelosi, alongside notable labor unions.

Bass’s history includes service in the state Legislature, Congress, and a past consideration for Vice President Joe Biden’s running mate in 2020. Raman, in her first citywide run, vowed to expedite housing development, revive the entertainment sector, and enhance city services.

California’s lengthy vote count process extended the decision, as mail ballots postmarked by Election Day were counted within seven days. Early returns reflected a lead for Bass, with Pratt second and Raman third. As late ballots were processed, Democratic candidates gained a larger share, indicating voter trends.

Raman’s policy stances have evolved. Educated at Harvard and MIT, she initially opposed no-camping zones near schools and daycare centers. She later softened this stance, voting against some but not opposing barriers as mayor. Her views on city policing also shifted. Advocating for a smaller department initially, she more recently accepted maintaining current staffing levels. Her position prompted police union adverts mocking her as “Flip Floppin’ Raman.”

Winning in diverse Los Angeles demands broad coalitions. To win, Raman must grow her support beyond her current followers. Democratic consultant Bill Carrick views Bass as susceptible, noting those opposing her may support Raman. Voter discontent echoes in both Raman’s and Pratt’s followings.

Tanika Vickers, a housing nonprofit worker, represents many who feel neglected by city policies. Displeased with the allocation of tax dollars for homelessness, she supports Raman for her detailed plans.

I think that we are all looking for change. Vickers expressed her hope for Raman’s leadership to address city issues effectively.