Los Angeles City Council members pledge support for mayor-elect Nithya Raman after opposing her candidacy

Los Angeles City Council members gathered in the chambers on Tuesday to welcome mayor-elect Nithya Raman, even though every councilmember had voted against her candidacy during the campaign. A pie marked “Humble” was placed on a table behind the chambers, symbolising the shift in tone as councilors extended congratulations.

“Full disclosure, you know that I didn’t support you last week,” Councilmember Curren Price said. “But you’ve got my full support now.”

Raman entered the chamber accompanied by staff, campaign aides and a security detail, received a bouquet of flowers, an official proclamation and a brief standing ovation. She acknowledged the council’s differing views, stating, “We are all here because we love L.A. and want to make it better… I am here to be spicy with you and to get through it and to find the outcome that works for all of us.”

During the campaign, several councilmembers had publicly criticized Raman. Councilmember Imelda Padilla described her tenure chairing the Housing and Homelessness Committee as “unproductive,” while Councilmember Monica Rodriguez called Raman’s decision to challenge former ally Mayor Karen Bass “disgusting” and “backstabbing.” Councilmember Traci Park questioned Raman’s principles, though she did not endorse Bass.

In the post-election setting, councilmembers offered tempered congratulations. Rodriguez added, “Where we align we will work together and where we don’t I will be fiercely opposing.” Political science professor Sara Sadhwani noted that councilors are likely making a calculated pivot, given Raman’s authority over the budget and city priorities. Former councilmember Mike Bonin suggested the tension may be overstated, pointing to past internal conflicts on the council.

The council also faces procedural matters, including whether Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson will retain his leadership role after his campaign clash with Raman over committee assignments. Harris-Dawson affirmed his intention to stay on as council president and expressed confidence in working with Raman, saying, “That campaign was nine months. We’ve worked together for six years. I don’t have any doubt … we’re going to be able to work together.”

Raman’s council seat will become vacant when she is sworn in next month, and the council is expected to address the appointment after its winter recess.