Los Angeles Mayoral Race Becomes Test for Antisemitism on Ballot
Candidate Nithya Raman's remarks on Israel and her association with controversial figures draw scrutiny in the lead-up to the November election.
The upcoming Los Angeles mayoral election is emerging as a significant test for the presence of antisemitism in American politics, with candidate Nithya Raman facing criticism for her statements and associations.
A forum held at the Skirball Cultural Center on September 29, 2026, intended to address issues relevant to the city and its Jewish community, highlighted concerns surrounding Raman's candidacy. The community has recently endured a series of antisemitic incidents.
Raman was questioned about her participation in a podcast hosted by Hasan Piker, who has previously made antisemitic remarks. Raman defended her decision, stating it was a necessity to engage with diverse platforms to reach voters. When asked if she would participate in a podcast whose host had made hateful comments about other groups, she affirmed she would, a response that drew gasps from the audience.
Furthermore, Raman stated her belief that Israel has committed "genocide" in Gaza, citing unnamed "experts." She also expressed a desire for Jewish individuals in Los Angeles to feel safe practicing their faith. Critics argue that her rhetoric, particularly the "genocide" claim, contributes to an environment where Jews feel unsafe and fuels anti-Israel protests that have targeted Jewish schools and synagogues.
The article references past incidents, including a 2024 event where anti-Israel protesters blocked access to an LA synagogue, an act condemned by President Joe Biden and investigated by the Justice Department. Raman's supporters, the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), have also come under fire. The DSA's manifesto reportedly singles out a Jewish nonprofit that provides security for synagogues and schools for defunding, a point of criticism for the article's author.
The piece draws a parallel between Raman and New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, suggesting both socialists are fueling hate. Mamdani's plan to combat antisemitism is described as overlooking "anti-Zionist" violence. The article concludes by framing the November election, which also includes Abdul El-Sayed's Senate run in Michigan, as a moment where hate is on the ballot and questions whether it will begin to lose.