Raman’s Policy Shifts Fuel Bass Criticism Ahead of LA Debate
Nithya Raman faces intense scrutiny for reversing stances on police funding, homelessness, and housing taxes, while polling data shows a split in Latino voter support ahead of the November 3 runoff.
Key points
- Raman reversed her opposition to no-camping zones, stating she would not block new bans if elected mayor, after voting against them over 60 times since 2021.
- She shifted from supporting police defunding to voting for an $82 million LAPD budget increase, and later opposed a request for 170 new officers before reversing that stance for her campaign.
- Raman changed her position on Measure ULA, initially supporting the real estate tax but later calling it disastrous for housing construction.
- A new poll shows Bass leading among Latino voters, contradicting a previous survey that gave Raman a significant lead in that demographic.
- Bass and Raman will debate on October 13, with topics including public safety, homelessness, and economic development.
Background
The race between incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman has been marked by sharp ideological clashes, including disagreements over the Gaza conflict and the handling of the January 2025 wildfires. Raman, a Democratic Socialist, initially endorsed Bass in January 2026 before launching her own campaign, a move that strained her relationships with council colleagues. Bass has never lost an election, while Raman represents a progressive alternative to the establishment.
How outlets are covering it
The Los Angeles Times highlights Raman’s frequent policy reversals, noting her shift from supporting police defunding to advocating for increased staffing, and her change in stance on the 'mansion tax.' Critics, including Councilmember Monica Rodriguez, accuse her of opportunism. Conversely, supporters like Former Deputy Mayor Rick Cole argue her willingness to change her mind based on new information is a strength. NBC Los Angeles focuses on the upcoming debate and the broader context of the race, noting Raman’s lead in some polls but Bass’s strength among older voters. The New York Post emphasizes conflicting polling data, with a new survey showing Bass leading among Latino voters by 12 points, contradicting an earlier Berkeley poll that gave Raman a 24-point lead in that demographic. This divergence highlights the uncertainty among key voter groups.
Why it matters
The debate over Raman’s consistency affects voter trust and the outcome of the November 3 election, which will determine the leadership of the second-largest city in the US. The conflicting polls indicate a highly contested race with significant undecided voters, making the final weeks of the campaign crucial for both candidates.
What to watch
Bass and Raman will participate in a one-hour debate on October 13, hosted by NBC4 and Telemundo 52. The final day to register to vote is October 19, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3.
- L.A. mayoral candidate Nithya Raman has strong opinions. But they often change. Los Angeles Times
- In Unlikely Turn, Law and Order Heats Up L.A. Mayor’s Race The New York Times
- Mayor Karen Bass, challenger Nithya Raman to meet in high-stakes election debate NBC Los Angeles
- Surprise poll shows support surge for LA mayoral candidate among key voters New York Post
- Why LA can’t elect its way to a mayor like Zohran Mamdani Highlander Newspaper
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