Nithya Raman defeats Karen Bass in projected victory that shakes up Los Angeles politics

Raman’s victory marks a dramatic shift in Los Angeles politics as voters reject Bass’ bid for a second term.

Nithya Raman is projected to become the next mayor of Los Angeles, defeating incumbent Karen Bass and delivering a major political shake-up in one of the nation’s most influential cities.

Decision Desk HQ projected Wednesday evening that Raman, a progressive Los Angeles City Councilmember, would defeat Bass after a contentious campaign that exposed divisions within the city’s Democratic establishment.

According to The Hill, Raman is projected to oust Bass after one term, marking a stunning reversal for a mayor who entered the race with backing from prominent Democratic leaders.

The projected victory represents a significant political moment for Raman, a member of the Democratic Socialists of America who first joined the City Council in 2020. She is poised to become Los Angeles’ first Asian American mayor.

Raman’s campaign focused on housing affordability, homelessness, public safety and criticism of Bass’ leadership, particularly following the devastating 2025 Palisades and Eaton fires.

As Politico reported, Raman’s rise has jolted Los Angeles’ political establishment, with her challenge to Bass representing a broader shift in the city’s political landscape.

The mayoral race also became a flashpoint over policing. Raman has said she intends to replace Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell, drawing sharp criticism from police representatives.

NBC Los Angeles reported that a police union official warned that officers could leave the department under Raman’s leadership, with Jamie McBride describing the potential consequences as “Armageddon.”

Raman’s projected victory also comes as progressive candidates continue to make gains in major American cities, raising questions about the future of Democratic leadership and the influence of establishment-backed candidates.

For Bass, the projected loss marks the end of her mayoral tenure after four years in office. Her administration faced mounting scrutiny over homelessness, public safety, the city’s response to the wildfires and persistent concerns about the delivery of basic services.

For Raman, the victory signals that Los Angeles voters are ready for a new direction — and places the progressive councilmember at the center of the city’s next political chapter.

The results remain subject to official certification as election officials continue processing ballots.