Bass and Raman debate homelessness and safety in Los Angeles

Mayor Karen Bass and City Councilwoman Nithya Raman engaged in a televised debate regarding homelessness and public safety ahead of the November 3 general election in Los Angeles. During the exchange, Bass defended her administration’s record, specifically citing her ‘Inside Safe’ initiative and executive directives for affordable housing as successful measures to reduce homelessness. Bass criticized Raman’s voting record, alleging that the councilwoman has consistently voted against police officers and against removing encampments near schools.

Raman countered by claiming that her own policies led to a nearly 50% reduction in homelessness within her district, even as citywide numbers fluctuated. She criticized Bass’s leadership, suggesting the mayor has been ‘MIA’ and has failed to meet the needs of many Angelenos.

Following the debate, City Controller Kenneth Mejia emerged as a prominent supporter for Raman. Mejia, the only elected official at City Hall to publicly endorse her candidacy, praised Raman’s vision for the city and positioned himself against the political establishment that largely supports Bass.