Democratic socialists win Los Angeles mayoral race as Nithya Raman defeats Karen Bass

The Guardian reported that a wave of democratic socialists captured key positions in Los Angeles, including the mayor’s office, a U.S. House seat and other powerful posts. Nithya Raman, who previously served on the city council, became the city’s next mayor after unseating incumbent Karen Bass. The outlet noted that Raman is the first democratic socialist to sit on the Los Angeles city council and that her victory was far from assured even in a city that leans heavily Democratic. A large network of volunteers helped the progressive candidates secure their wins, according to the report. With Raman’s election, the Guardian said America’s two largest cities will now be led by democratic socialist mayors, marking a striking shift for the party’s progressive wing.

Why it matters

The outcome signals growing influence of democratic socialist leaders in major U.S. cities, reshaping local governance and national political dynamics.

Key details

Location

United States · Americas

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

7 Nov 2026, 20:30 IST

Key names

Nithya Raman, LA, Los Angeles, US House

Section

World

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianLA’s newer, bluer wave: Nithya Raman leads way as city’s progressives make their mark 7 Nov, 20:30

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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