LA mayoral rivals to debate homelessness and job losses at forum

Two Democratic candidates for mayor of Los Angeles will appear together at a forum on Tuesday, just days before mail‑in ballots are sent to voters.

The event, organised by the Jewish Federation Los Angeles, will feature incumbent Karen Bass and City Council member Nithya Raman, who is backed by the Democratic Socialists of America. Bass, the city’s first Black female mayor, is seeking re‑election after a turbulent first term that included the deadly Palisades Fire and a warehouse blaze that left residents dealing with foul odours for weeks.

Raman, who previously endorsed Bass before entering the race, is campaigning on a platform to tackle the city’s chronic homelessness, deteriorating streets and rising rent and house prices. She argues that the “broken status quo” must be replaced to protect working‑class residents.

The mayoral contest has attracted limited media attention, with few yard signs or advertisements visible as mail‑in ballots are due in early October. Both campaigns have so far spent only modest amounts on airtime and digital messaging.

Los Angeles also faces broader challenges, including a decline in Hollywood jobs, ongoing federal immigration raids and preparations for the financially demanding 2028 Olympic Games.

Source: ABC News. Photo: RDNE Stock project / Pexels.