From NBC Los Angeles · · 1m 20s
Karen Bass vs. Nithya Raman: LA mayoral debate takeaways
Karen Bass and Nithya Raman clash over homelessness, police leadership in LA mayoral debate.
In brief
Karen Bass and Nithya Raman clash over homelessness, police leadership in LA mayoral debate. Karen Bass and Nithya Raman disagreed on homelessness policies, police leadership, and coalition strength ahead of the November 3 election. Originally reported by NBC Los Angeles.
Gloves are off
Raman accused Bass of misrepresenting her record after previously endorsing her.
“This is a lie”
Innovation vs. Experience
Raman emphasized reforming homelessness systems while Bass questioned her readiness for city leadership.
“For the first time, thanks to my work on that committee, we have performance data about homelessness in the city that I use to fill every shelter bed in my district”
Coalition vs. Lone wolf
Bass highlighted Raman's lack of council support while Raman defended her reform approach.
“My colleagues had no trouble putting me in leadership on the council, making me the chair of one of the most powerful committees before I decided to push back against a system that I saw was failing Los Angeles when I decided to run against you, Mayor Bass”
Homelessness policies
Bass cited 11% street homelessness reduction while Raman criticized Inside Safe program costs and transparency.
“Under this mayor's leadership, we have poured hundreds of millions of dollars into an incredibly expensive program, Inside Safe, which has been unaccountable to the public for which she has refused audits”
Public safety leadership
Bass criticized Raman's opposition to police pay raises while Raman called for police chief replacement.
“She has consistently voted against police officers. She has consistently voted to not remove encampments in front of schools”
2026 election timeline
The debate occurred Tuesday night ahead of November 3 election with no official winner yet.
Homeless encampments
Raman defended keeping LAMC Section 41.18 while Bass supported Inside Safe program.
“Raman would not repeal Los Angeles Municipal Code (LAMC) Section 41.18”
Police chief replacement
Bass warned replacing police chief before 2028 Olympics would disrupt city security.
“We are 640 days away from the largest sporting event to ever take place, a major national security event. And if you think that you're going to find a police chief, you would send the department in disarray by doing that”
Social media incident
Raman and influencer called Bass and LAPD chief 'fascist liars' in video.
“This is a lie”
2026 election
Bass and Raman face November 3 election with no clear winner after debate.
What matters most
Karen Bass and Nithya Raman disagreed on homelessness policies, police leadership, and coalition strength ahead of the November 3 election.
