It's official: L.A. City Councilmember Nithya Raman just got a promotion at City Hall. Raman will be the city’s next mayor in an upset for incumbent Karen Bass.



Bass conceded on Thursday in a statement:

“While this is not the outcome we hoped for, the people of Los Angeles have spoken. I have called Councilmember Nithya Raman to congratulate her on her victory, and I have committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless transition. Moving this city forward is what Los Angeles needs from all of us. I love Los Angeles. I believe in Los Angeles. And I will continue to ensure the promise of a better life belongs to all of us. Thank you.” 

How we got here: A year ago, Raman wasn’t on anybody’s radar for mayor. Earlier this year, she filed to run against her one-time ally on the last day possible. And as voters might remember, Raman fell to third in the June primary but later overtook reality TV star Spencer Pratt on day six of the count, clinching her spot in the general election.

Why it matters: The nation’s first and second most populous cities will now be led by electeds associated with the Democratic Socialists of America — Mayor Zohran Mamdani in New York and Raman in L.A. respectively.

What to expect from Raman as mayor: Raman, a champion of tenants' rights, has promised to tackle housing affordability, homelessness and police reform, including removing LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell. She also has vowed to improve basic city services like pothole and street light repair.

You can read more in our story here about what Raman will have to tackle during her first term.