Mayor Karen Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman are set to engage in a critical debate at 7 p.m. The event, hosted by NBC4 and Telemundo 52, will be broadcast live and streamed online at nbcla.com and telemundo52.com. With Election Day approaching in three weeks, this debate follows a recent poll showing Raman gaining ground. The Berkeley IGS/L.A. Times poll indicates 39% of likely voters support Raman, while 28% back Bass. However, 33% remain undecided.
This mayoral race highlights a generational divide, with younger voters gravitating toward Raman and older voters supporting Bass. Comprehensive candidate information can be found in the voter guide.
Live Chat: Columnists are analyzing the mayoral debate for insight.
Columnist Ali notes the stakes for both candidates are substantial. Yet, many Angelenos seem unaware the debate is happening. Ali observes a surprising number of politically engaged individuals hadn’t realized the event was airing, expressing frustration that it’s broadcast on network TV. Ali emphasizes the importance of Raman defining herself beyond being the alternative to Bass, while Bass must defend her tenure and address the public’s demand for change.
Tune in to the debate for crucial information affecting L.A.’s future.
Debate Focus Areas
Coverage of the mayor’s race over the past year brings us to this crucial televised debate between Bass and Raman. Here’s what we’re watching:
- Police Chief Politics: Bass recently critiqued Raman for her statement in an Instagram video about “only you can stop fascist liars,” linked to criticism of Police Chief Jim McDonnell. Raman clarifies this referred to Trump, not McDonnell. The video was edited by an Instagram influencer altering her message. Observers will watch if Bass challenges Raman on this and if Raman clarifies her position on McDonnell.
- Performance Under Pressure: In previous debates, Raman appeared uneasy, with critics noting she struggled against Bass’s confident, experienced demeanor. Now leading in polls, attention will be on Raman’s comfort level this time. Meanwhile, will Bass escalate her critiques from the August Sherman Oaks debate?
- Addressing Wildfires: The January 2025 wildfires have been a minor topic in their debates but significantly affected Bass’s popularity last year. In the last debate before the June 2 primary, Spencer Pratt criticized Bass on the issue. Tuesday could be Raman’s chance to highlight this vulnerability again.
Debate Details
The debate, in partnership with Loyola Marymount University, features NBC4 news anchor Colleen Williams, NBC4 political reporter Conan Nolan, and Telemundo 52 news anchor Alejandra Ortiz as moderators. It will be broadcast live on NBC4, Telemundo 52, streamed online, and available on LAist at 89.3 FM.