Los Angeles Mayor-elect Nithya Raman used her first press conference since winning the election to emphasize the importance of public safety but sidestepped direct questions about her campaign pledges to oust LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell and potentially reduce police staffing. Raman, who is set to take office in mid-December, stated that public safety is the city's most crucial service.
"I have spoken to leadership at LAPD already. In fact, I spoke to Chief McDonnell earlier today, and it was one of the first calls that I made," Raman said during an appearance at the Original Farmers Market. "Because public safety is the most important service that the city is delivering to its people. It is hands down the most important service."
Raman, a Democratic Socialists of America-backed city councilwoman, did not explicitly confirm whether she would follow through on her campaign pledge to replace McDonnell or implement significant changes within the Los Angeles Police Department. "I want to make sure that whatever happens over this transition, that we are prepared to deliver that service at the level that Angelenos expect when I take office in mid-December," she added. "And I know Chief McDonnell is committed to that, I am committed to that, and will continue those discussions."
The press conference followed the latest election returns, which showed Raman with a decisive lead over incumbent Mayor Karen Bass, securing 52.70% of the vote. Bass conceded the race on Thursday, paving the way for Raman to become the first mayor of Los Angeles endorsed by the DSA.
During the campaign, Raman had indicated her intention to replace McDonnell before the 2028 Olympics, citing a need for a significant change in the department's leadership and culture. This stance drew criticism from the Los Angeles Police Protective League and Bass, who warned of potential disruption to efforts to rebuild the LAPD.
The LAPD has seen its staffing levels decrease from approximately 10,000 sworn officers in 2020 to fewer than 8,700 as of this spring, the lowest in about 25 years. The city aims to reach 9,500 officers by 2028, in preparation for the Olympics.
Raman has also proposed expanding unarmed emergency response teams for calls that do not require police intervention. Her administration will face the challenge of balancing these initiatives with the demand for increased police presence.
When asked about the significance of her victory, Raman became emotional, reflecting on her journey as an immigrant. "I am an immigrant to this country," she told reporters. "And this is the city of immigrants in so many ways. The idea that Angelenos voted for an immigrant to be their next mayor, at this moment in American history, is so deeply moving to me."
Beyond public safety, Raman's administration will confront numerous challenges, including a significant homeless population, financial pressures, and preparations for the 2028 Summer Olympics. When pressed for details on her priorities for her first 100 days, Raman noted the condensed transition period, stating, "We have 40 days to build this transition." She indicated that further details would be shared once preparations are more concrete.