Indian-origin Nithya Raman is set to become the next mayor of Los Angeles after defeating incumbent Mayor Karen Bass, marking the first time in more than 20 years that a sitting mayor has lost the city’s mayoral election.
Bass conceded defeat on Thursday after the latest vote count showed Raman leading with 52% of the votes against Bass’s 48%, with 76% of the expected ballots counted.
“Los Angeles, I’m deeply honored to be your next mayor,” Raman, 45, said in a video statement. She also acknowledged Bass’s contribution to the city and her decades of public service.
Accepting the voters’ decision, Bass said, “While this is not the outcome we hoped for, the people of Los Angeles have spoken.” She also congratulated Raman and pledged to ensure a smooth transition.
Bass further recalled her historic election four years ago as Los Angeles’ first Black woman mayor, thanking residents for giving her the opportunity to serve.
Raman’s victory follows an unusual campaign launch, as she entered the mayoral race just hours before the nomination deadline after making the decision the previous night.
Although initial results placed her behind Bass, analysts expected Raman to gain ground as younger and more progressive voters, who generally submit ballots later, continued voting.
