Nithya Raman out-raises Karen Bass in Los Angeles mayoral race

Nithya Raman, a Los Angeles City Councilmember, has slightly outpaced incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in fundraising for the upcoming mayoral election. According to recent financial disclosures, Raman has raised approximately $2.53 million in direct contributions and public matching funds, while Bass has collected about $2.51 million.

Raman holds a significant advantage in liquid resources, with nearly $1.9 million in cash on hand compared to Bass’s approximately $1.2 million. Both candidates have utilized the city’s matching fund program, which provides $6 in taxpayer money for every $1 raised from local supporters, with each receiving at least $1 million through the system.

The fundraising shift occurs as the race tightens ahead of the November 3 election. While a recent poll showed Raman leading Bass 39% to 28%, the mayor’s campaign has dismissed the survey as an outlier. Raman recently met with Hollywood executives and business leaders at an event hosted by former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, though Schwarzenegger has not issued an endorsement.