Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and City Councilmember Nithya Raman faced off in a heated debate, tackling key issues like homelessness, public safety, and fiscal management. The debate, organized by the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association, was the first since the June primary.
Debate Highlights
During the debate, Bass criticized Raman for not collaborating well with colleagues and treating city matters as academic exercises. Bass also accused Raman of missing thousands of votes. Raman defended her hiring decisions, including hiring Fight Agency for campaign ads, despite their controversial past associations.
If I had known that person was doing that, that person would not have been advising me.
Raman countered Bass by mentioning former advisor Yusef Robb’s crisis consulting work with a company involved in a fire incident. Raman emphasized the need for practical solutions instead of studies.
Homelessness and Public Safety
Bass highlighted her efforts to house people and accelerate housing projects. She questioned Raman’s capability to govern given her lack of support from colleagues. In contrast, Raman called Bass’s leadership rudderless and criticized her fiscal management, which she claimed led to reduced city services.
Two thirds of voters in this primary chose against an incumbent mayor — that is very rare.
Fiscal and Policy Critiques
The candidates debated over fiscal policies and the Los Angeles Police Department’s role. Raman accused Bass of supporting costly investments over necessary city services. Bass noted that city budgets are council-approved, implying Raman shares responsibility for fiscal outcomes.
Raman criticized the Convention Center expansion, suggesting political motivations are driving such projects. Bass defended it, stating its importance for attracting conventions to the city.
Where They Stand
Bass and Raman offered their visions for making Los Angeles more business-friendly, particularly in film and housing. Bass highlighted her appointments and housing projects. Raman, however, critiqued the loss of film jobs under Bass and proposed a stronger state tax credit for the film industry.
The debate provided a platform for both candidates to clarify their positions and response strategies. As the November election nears, both aim to sway undecided voters, including those who supported third-place candidate Spencer Pratt.