Full Breakdown
Los Angeles Mayoral Candidate Nithya Raman Stumbles Over Favorite Rappers
By Drooid · · How we work
Podcast Misstep Highlights Cultural Disconnect
During a recent appearance on the “Higher Learning” podcast, Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman hesitated when asked to name three favorite Los Angeles rappers. After naming the late Nipsey Hussle, she paused before adding Snoop Dogg and Tupac Shakur. Co-host Van Lathan teased her, remarking, “Wow. Look at you, media trained,” and urged her to keep searching for names. The exchange drew laughter from the hosts and prompted criticism that Raman’s cultural familiarity with the city was superficial.
Race Context and Campaign Focus
Raman, a 45-year-old councilmember representing the 4th district, is competing against incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the upcoming runoff after advancing from the June primary. Her campaign emphasizes dissatisfaction with the city’s handling of homelessness, basic services, and the entertainment industry. The podcast incident occurred weeks before the runoff, adding a pop-culture flashpoint to an already tight contest.
Official Statements & Responses
Van Lathan’s on-air jab framed Raman’s pause as evidence of media coaching.
Los Angeles County Republican Party chairwoman Roxanne Hoge used the moment to question Raman’s grasp of the city’s business climate, stating she would prefer Raman be able to name thriving local businesses.
Poll Numbers
A University of California, Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll of 2,150 likely voters conducted mid-September showed Raman leading Bass 39 % to 28 %, with 33 % undecided. The poll carries a margin of error of roughly three percentage points.
What’s Next
The runoff election is scheduled for the upcoming date. Both campaigns are expected to intensify outreach as undecided voters remain a sizable share of the electorate, and cultural authenticity may continue to feature in campaign narratives.