Nithya Raman’s Political Journey and Vision for Los Angeles
Nithya Raman paused during a debate with Mayor Karen Bass in Sherman Oaks to consider a question. The moderator asked what she needed to improve as a politician. Raman replied that she needed to involve others before presenting her ideas to ensure they weren’t stopped. This moment reflected her self-awareness as she pursued the Los Angeles mayoral position.
Raman, a Harvard and MIT graduate, is viewed as one of the smartest people in Los Angeles City Hall. She introduced the city’s Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance in 2021 and led efforts to update the city’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance, reducing annual rent increases. However, she faces criticism for her cooperation skills, alliances, and receptiveness to varied views.
Rick Cole, a Pasadena City Council member and former deputy mayor, described Raman as more focused on governance than politicking, but recognized her learning ability and potential.
Mayoral Candidacy
Raman announced her mayoral candidacy just before the June 2 primary deadline, after endorsing Bass. In a statement, she acknowledged her entry stirred emotions in City Hall, but expressed her frustration with the city’s direction and desire for change.
Raman highlighted her legislative achievements, including strong renter protections, a Sanctuary City ordinance, a homelessness oversight bureau, and independent redistricting.
Despite support from the Democratic Socialists of America, Raman did not consult them before declaring her candidacy, leading to a recommendation rather than an endorsement from them.
Challenges and Campaign Dynamics
Raman has not received endorsements from council members in the primary, where she is in a close race with former reality TV star Spencer Pratt. Other DSA-backed council members have endorsed Bass.
She criticized Bass’ Inside Safe program for its cost and proposed a data-driven approach to issues like streetlights and road conditions. Raman wants to expand housing, reduce red tape for developers, and introduce “gentle density.” Her husband, Vali Chandrasekaran, is a television writer, and she aims to lower fees to boost Hollywood jobs.
Raman, originally from India, attended Harvard and MIT for urban planning. Before council life, she established a nonprofit addressing homelessness and interned for the city’s homelessness response.
Interactions and Relations
Raman’s political journey was marked by a significant scandal involving racist remarks from three council members. This influenced her relationships within the council and her approach to collaboration.
Despite her legislative successes, some neighborhood groups feel disconnected. Raman’s office responds to community needs but lacks the personal touch some constituents expect compared to former politicians like Tom LaBonge.
The Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association and Raman disagree on housing density, with Raman supporting increased density in single-family zones.
Criticisms and Support
Council colleagues and Mayor Bass argue that Raman struggles with building relationships. Supporters acknowledge her deficiencies in politics but admire her courage to pursue what she believes is right.
Her stance on policing has evolved. Initially advocating for a smaller, specialized LAPD force, Raman supported budgets that increased the department’s funding. She opposed hiring additional officers due to budget concerns and criticized a police union contract for financial reasons, leading to mixed reactions.
In January, Raman proposed reforms to Measure ULA, which taxes high-value property transfers for affordable housing. Some collaborators felt excluded from the decision-making process.
Raman’s approach to no-camping zones has softened, showing willingness to adapt her stance.
While some see her changes as inconsistent, others view Raman as responsible and open-minded, assessing issues independently and thoughtfully.