Nithya Raman pays tribute to Karen Bass and thanks LA voters after winning race for mayor

DSA-backed Nithya Raman, the city councilmember who just unseated Mayor Karen Bass, paid tribute to her rival Thursday in her first public message as mayor-elect.

Raman posted a video on social media shortly after her victory was projected.

“I am honored to be your next mayor,” Raman said.

The mayor-elect then turned to the incumbent, tracing her career from the emergency room to City Hall.

“I also wanted to pay tribute to Mayor Karen Bass, someone who has given decades of her life to making this city what it is today,” Raman said.

She cited Bass’s time as an emergency-room nurse, her founding of Community Coalition, her leadership in Sacramento and Washington, and her election as the city’s first woman mayor.

“I know so many people, not just across this city but across this country, are grateful for her dedication to the promise of Los Angeles,” she said.

She saved her most direct appeal for voters who backed Bass, or sat the election out.

“I am going to City Hall to work every single day to earn your trust and to earn your trust in this city again,” Raman said.

She said that the work for her “starts now” to get housing people can afford, parks for children, a transit system that can “get people where they need to go,” and a city government “that is actually capable of delivering on its promises.”

“I love this city and I love its people, and I cannot wait to get started on building a better future together with all of you,” she said. “Thank you so much, Los Angeles.”

Earlier today, Bass conceded defeat and called Raman to congratulate her on her victory. She also pledged a smooth transition, saying Los Angeles voters had spoken despite the disappointing outcome.

“I love Los Angeles. I believe in Los Angeles. And I will continue to ensure the promise of a better life belongs to all of us. Thank you,” Bass said in her final message.

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