Struggling LA, Mayor Karen Bass fights for 2nd term against democratic socialist-backed Raman

Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass is facing a second-term challenge on Nov. 3 against Nithya Raman, a less-known Los Angeles City Council member backed by the Democratic Socialists of America. Bass is framed as the Democratic establishment, supported by Gov. Gavin Newsom, former Vice President Kamala Harris, and Nancy Pelosi, among others. The campaign plays out as the city confronts rising homelessness, escalating housing costs, higher utility bills, and cracked streets and sidewalks. Only 5% of ballots had been returned after nearly three weeks of mail voting, according to Political Data Inc. Bass also ties to the Palisades Fire controversy.