Left‑wing councilmember Nithya Raman is projected to join incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the November runoff for Los Angeles mayor after mail‑in ballots lifted her past Republican Spencer Pratt in the non‑partisan primary. The shift, reported on Tuesday by NBC News and CNN, turns the race into a contest between progressive policy pushes and established Democratic leadership.

Mail‑in Ballots Propel Nithya Raman Past Spencer Pratt

As mail‑in vote tabulation began, Raman’s share rose to 28.5% while Pratt slipped to 25.8%, according to the latest projections .. The early lead Pratt enjoyed after precinct reporting evaporated once absentee ballots were counted,highlighting the decisive role of California’s mail‑in system in close municipal contests.

Raman’s 28.5% Share Beats Republican in Nonpartisan Primary

The projected 28.5% vote for Raman, a Democratic Socialist on the City Council, was enough to secure the second‑place slot needed to face Bass in the general election.. Although the ballot is officially non‑partisan, both Raman and Bass are registered Democrats, while Pratt is a registered Republican, underscoring the deep‑blue tilt of the city.

Karen Bass Faces Progressive Challenge in Los Angeles Runoff

Mayor Karen Bass, a former U.S. congresswoman first elected in 2022, must now defend her record on homelessness, public safety and affordability against Raman’s more aggressive platform.. Raman promised a “healthier, safer, more affordable, and more joyful Los Angeles” in a statement posted on X, signaling a push for expanded housing production and stronger tenant protections.

What Remains Unclear About Voter Turnout and Demographic Shifts

Analysts note two unanswered pionts: whether Raman can broaden her appeal beyond progressive strongholds, and how turnout among younger and minority voters will shape the November outcome.. The final certified results are still pending, and both campaigns are ramping up canvassing, fundraising and media outreach to win over undecided constituents.