Nithya Raman Criticized for 'Fascist' Video Targeting LAPD Chief
Councilwoman Nithya Raman's campaign has been accused of poor judgment after posting and then deleting a video that labeled LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell a 'fascist' and showed his face with a red 'X' over it.
Los Angeles City Councilwoman Nithya Raman is facing criticism for a campaign video that labeled LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell a "fascist" and included an "X" over his face. The video, posted by Raman's campaign and later deleted, also targeted Mayor Karen Bass.
The ad has drawn accusations of appalling judgment, with critics suggesting it reflects a disregard for the meaning of the term "fascist" and its historical context. Fascism is described as an extremist ideology advocating totalitarian rule, often associated with racism and antisemitism, and historically linked to dictatorships and atrocities like the Nazi Holocaust.
The criticism extends to Raman's past stance on policing, with references to her previous call to "defund the police" in 2020. The article suggests this recent video indicates a continued alignment with sentiments that are hostile to law enforcement, drawing parallels to riots that occurred in 2020 and 2025.
McDonnell has reportedly navigated a difficult position, balancing crime prevention efforts with responses to federal immigration enforcement actions. Raman's socialist alignment is noted as a reason for her perceived opposition to the LAPD, particularly its role in protecting federal agents and ICE offices from protesters.
The article questions Raman's understanding of "fascist" given her past support for McDonnell's appointment in 2024. It posits that her rhetoric is divisive and unsuitable for a mayoral candidate aiming to unite the city, asserting that such language has no place in American politics, particularly in Los Angeles, referencing past disturbances involving anti-police sentiment and property damage.