Raman Challenges Bass in Tight Los Angeles Mayoral Race
Voters decide between the incumbent's record and the councilwoman's reform platform as polls close Tuesday.
By Julia Novak ·
Los Angeles voters cast ballots Tuesday in a direct contest between Mayor Karen Bass and Councilwoman Nithya Raman. The race pits the sitting executive against a former ally who launched a late challenge for the city's top office. Polls closed at 8 p.m. on November 3, 2026.
Bass campaigns on a four year record of addressing homelessness and reducing crime rates. She emphasizes job growth through expanded film and television tax credits. Her administration also opposes federal immigration enforcement policies under the current administration. Her campaign website states she is running to change Los Angeles rather than seeking another office after this term.
Raman entered the race claiming she can make a greater impact as mayor than as one of 15 city council members. She acknowledges that citywide crime rates have decreased but points to slow emergency response times and ongoing safety concerns in local communities. As an immigrant, she centers her platform on ending pay to play politics at City Hall. Her website asserts that Los Angeles needs leadership that takes responsibility for results instead of asking people to pay more and expect less.
The two candidates represent different approaches to governing a city of millions. Bass relies on her established track record, while Raman positions herself as a reformer with new energy. Both campaigns have targeted key swing districts in the final weeks. The outcome will determine the direction of city policy on housing, transit, and public safety for the next four years.
