Full Breakdown
Democratic Socialists of America Endorse Nithya Raman for Los Angeles Mayor
9/5/2026, 8:31:55 PM
Core Event: DSA-LA backs Raman in the runoff race
The Los Angeles chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA-LA) endorsed City Councilmember Nithya Raman after an online vote of its members. Of roughly 6,000 registered DSA members in the region, about 1,400 participated; 937 voted in favor, 484 against and 52 abstained. The endorsement provides Raman with a volunteer network and campaign infrastructure as she prepares to face incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the November runoff.
Background & Context
DSA’s national profile has risen sharply since 2023, with membership now around 120,000 and recent victories in New York City races. Its platform includes universal health care, rent-stabilization reforms and, in some locales, calls to defund police or abolish ICE—positions that have drawn both enthusiasm from progressive voters and alarm from Democratic establishment figures.
Data & Statistics
- DSA-LA membership: >6,000; voting participants: 1,400 (?23%).
- Endorsement vote: 937 for, 484 against, 52 abstentions (Los Angeles Times).
- Primary results (June 2026): Karen Bass 34%, Nithya Raman 29%, reality-TV candidate Spencer Pratt 26% (New York Post).
Criticism & Opposition
Beyond the Bass campaign’s safety concerns, several Democratic insiders have voiced unease about DSA’s influence. Trujillo argued that “as more normal Democrats learn about their weird uncle DSA at the dinner table the less and less they’re liking them.” Political scientist Fernando Guerra said, “I’m not sure she’s going to win.” These comments reflect broader tensions between DSA’s platform and the Democratic establishment’s centrist appeal.
On-the-Ground Reports
Union leader Ada Briceño, co-president of UNITE HERE Local 11, pledged that “Nithya Raman will fight alongside our members to protect working families, enforce our laws, preserve our housing, and hold corporations like Airbnb accountable when they take desperately needed homes off the market.” Local activists report canvassing tens of thousands of doors and hosting fundraisers aimed at expanding Raman’s coalition of tenants, union members and immigrant communities.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Raman’s stance on policing has shifted. In 2020 she campaigned on “defund the police,” yet in 2024 she argued Los Angeles “should not lose more officers” and described the department as understaffed. No definitive clarification has been issued by Raman’s campaign.
Verbatim Quotes
What’s Next
The runoff debate between Bass and Raman took place on August 19, 2026 in Van Nuys, and both candidates will continue to court endorsements from labor groups and progressive organizations ahead of the November election. The outcome will influence how much leverage DSA-affiliated lawmakers will have in the 120th Congress, should Democrats secure a majority.
