Bass vs. Raman: The High-Stakes Fight for Los Angeles Leadership

Key points

• Bass, 72, seeks a second term after winning in 2022; she has never lost an election but faces low approval ratings comparable to President Trump’s.
• Raman, 45, entered the race late, finishing second in the June primary and edging out Spencer Pratt to face Bass in the runoff.
• Raman’s 100-day plan includes shifting homelessness funding away from LAHSA, creating a 'shot clock' for housing permits, and replacing LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell.
• Bass defends her Inside Safe program, which housed over 6,000 people, though 42% have since returned to homelessness; she criticizes Raman’s lack of collaboration with colleagues.
• A televised debate is scheduled for October 13, focusing on public safety, homelessness, and economic development ahead of the November 3 election.

Background

Bass previously served in Sacramento and Washington D.C., while Raman has represented Council District 4 since 2020. The DSA endorsed Raman in September, though internal divisions exist over her policy stances. Bass’s approval has suffered due to the Palisades fire recovery and the Lineage warehouse fire, while Raman’s campaign emphasizes accountability and results over bureaucratic delays.

How outlets are covering it

The Guardian frames the race as a 'cut-throat' battle for Bass’s political life, emphasizing her vulnerability. The LA Daily News highlights Raman’s specific policy proposals, such as auditing homelessness spending and creating new city offices. NBC Los Angeles notes the close polling and Bass’s defense of her homelessness efforts, while the LA Times provides a detailed comparison of their stances on police, housing, and the convention center, noting Bass’s support from labor unions and Raman’s backing from YIMBY groups.

Why it matters

The outcome will determine the direction of Los Angeles’s approach to homelessness, housing affordability, and public safety. A Raman victory could signal a shift toward progressive, anti-establishment governance, while a Bass win would maintain the status quo with established labor and business support. The race also reflects broader national trends of anti-establishment sentiment and dissatisfaction with local government effectiveness.

What to watch

Voters will cast ballots on November 3, with mail ballots beginning to arrive in October. The October 13 debate will be a key moment for both candidates to address major issues. Post-election, the winner will implement their respective agendas, with Raman’s 100-day plan or Bass’s continued efforts on homelessness and housing shaping the city’s future.