Radical Leftist Raman Leads Mayor Bass by 11 Points in Troubling LA Mayoral Poll
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A University of California Berkeley poll shows far-left councilmember Nithya Raman, aligned with Democratic Socialists of America, leading incumbent Mayor Karen Bass by 11 points, with a third of voters still undecided and the city’s future at stake.
A poll released Wednesday by the University of California Berkeley Institute of Government Studies and the Los Angeles Times reveals that Nithya Raman, a councilmember known for her radical leftist agenda and ties to the Democratic Socialists of America, is leading incumbent Mayor Karen Bass by 11 points among likely Los Angeles voters. Raman, whose policies have raised concerns about public safety and fiscal responsibility, has 39% support, while Bass, despite her own progressive record, trails at 28%. The online survey of 2,150 likely voters conducted between Sept. 15 and 20 found that about one-third of respondents remain undecided, highlighting the uncertainty and discontent among voters as the city faces rising crime and homelessness.
Poll director Mark DiCamillio noted, "It's extraordinarily unusual to see this many undecided voters at this point in the race," reflecting widespread apprehension about the direction of Los Angeles under far-left leadership.
The poll also indicates that many undecided voters previously supported independent candidate Spencer Pratt, who was eliminated in the June primary. Of Pratt’s supporters, a staggering 63% remain undecided, 22% now back Bass, and just 16% support Raman, suggesting that voters are wary of embracing extreme policies.
Raman touted the poll on social media, claiming it reflects momentum for change, while Bass downplayed the results, arguing that a single poll that missed the primary outcome “means very little with 40 days to go,” and asserted the race remains close. Both candidates, however, have failed to address the core issues plaguing the city.
The poll shows a generational split, with Raman leading among voters aged 18 to 39, while Bass leads among those 65 and older, raising concerns about the influence of younger voters attracted to radical ideas. Favorability ratings show 63% of respondents view Bass unfavorably, compared to 39% for Raman, underscoring the deep dissatisfaction with current leadership. The poll’s margin of error is about three percentage points.