Los Angeles mayoral candidate Nithya Raman plans to demolish her historic Silver Lake home to construct a larger, three-story residence, a move that has drawn criticism from some neighbors and housing activists.
Raman, who is backed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA-LA), is seeking city approval to replace her current 1,879-square-foot, three-bedroom home with a 3,528-square-foot dwelling that includes a spa and a two-car garage. The property, purchased by Raman and her husband in 2015 for $1.25 million, is described as a "contributor" to the Silver Lake Residential Historic District.
City records indicate that Raman's plans evolved over time. An application in 2022 proposed remodeling and expanding the existing house, but by 2025, the scope had changed to a teardown. The proposed rebuild includes hillside grading, temporary shoring, and new retaining walls, and it remains pending with the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety.
Neighbors have expressed concerns about the scale of the proposed demolition and rebuild. One resident described the prospect as "disappointing" and a "shame," while another likened a recently built modern home nearby to a "mammoth eyesore" that had impacted the neighborhood's character.
The redevelopment plan also comes as Raman campaigns on a platform addressing Los Angeles' housing crisis. She advocates for increased housing construction and has been vocal about the need for more affordable housing options in the city. The DSA-LA platform calls for housing to be treated as a human right and for more housing to be moved from private markets into public or community control.
Critics have pointed to the contrast between Raman's political stances and her personal property plans. Barry Cassily, a Venice developer and housing activist, commented on the situation, stating, "These socialists are hilarious. It’s so perfect that Nithya Raman would think nothing of tearing down a one-story historic property to build herself a three-story McMansion." Cassily drew parallels to another DSA-backed candidate who, according to reports, resided in a high-value rental property while campaigning on housing affordability.
Raman's financial disclosures indicate significant personal investments and household income. She has reported substantial holdings in companies like Alphabet Inc. and Comcast, and substantial income from her previous role as executive director of Time's Up Now. Her campaign has been contacted for comment.