Nithya Raman, a progressive city councilwoman, moved into a slim lead over former reality‑TV star Kevin Pratt in the Los Angeles mayoral primary,according to the latest tally released Sunday. With 83.2% of the expected vote counted, Raman posted 27.1% while Pratt lagged at 26.7%, a reversal from earlier results that had her trailing.

Raman leads with 27.1% as 83.2% of votes counted

Election officials reported that the updated numbers reflect a surge in mail‑in and provisional ballots, which tend to favor progressive candidates. Raman’s campaign highlighted the figure, noting that the margin, though narrow, signals growing support for her platform of housing affordability, police reform, and environmental justice. "We are encouraged by the latest vote count and remain grateful to the thousands of Angelenos who have powered this campaign," Raman said in a statement, underscoring her cautious optimism.

Pratt trails at 26.7% amid mail‑in surge

Kevin Pratt, who has centered his message on public safety and economic recovery, received 26.7% of the counted ballots. His team urged patience, stating, "We are confident that once all votes are counted, we will prevail." The close gap illustrates how the influx of mail‑in votes is reshaping the dynamics, a trend analysts say often benefits candidates with strong grassroots networks.

Trump‑linked prosecutor opens fraud probe

First Assistant U.S.. Attorney Bill Essayli, identified as a Trump‑linked figure, announced a federal investigation into alleged election fraud in California, claiming the state is blocking a federal audit of voter rolls. Election officials , however, dismissed the allegations as baseless and emphasized that California’s voting procedures remain secure. As the report notes, the probe is unlikely to affect the primary outcome, but it has added a partisan flashpoint to an already heated contest.

Remaining mail‑in ballots could swing result

With thousands of mail‑in and provisional ballots still to be processed, the race remains too close to call. The deadline for mail‑in ballots to be postmarked is Tuesday, and county officials expect to certify the results within two weeks.. Analysts caution that the final batch could either cement Raman’s lead or propel Pratt ahead, depending on voter demographics and turnout patterns in the remaining precincts.

Will the final mail‑in count keep Raman ahead?

The key unanswered question is whether the remaining ballots will maintain Raman’s narrow edge or reverse it . Both campaigns are mobilizing volunteers to moniotr the count, and observers note that late‑arriving ballots from neighborhoods with strong progressive leanings could be decisive. As the article points out, the outcome will set the stage for a November showdown that includes incumbent Mayor Eric Garcetti.