Nithya Raman wins Los Angeles mayoral race after late campaign start

Nithya Raman launched her campaign for Los Angeles mayor just one day before the filing deadline, starting without basic campaign infrastructure such as an office, bank account, or website, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Her initial campaign efforts began in the backyard accessory dwelling unit of her Silver Lake home, where early volunteers gathered and family members prepared vegetarian Indian meals for the small team.

Despite these humble beginnings, Raman’s campaign grew into a disciplined operation that successfully mobilized younger renters and Latino voters, securing crucial endorsements and building a strong ground game.

She ran on a message focused on restoring city services, contrasting herself with incumbent Mayor Karen Bass, who had the backing of most of L.A.’s traditional political establishment but was deeply unpopular among some voters.

Raman’s victory marks a significant political shift in Los Angeles, achieved on a compressed timeline and through expanding her base in key communities.