Nithya Raman's Frequent Absences From Key Votes Raise Questions
Councilmember Nithya Raman's record of missed votes and meetings has drawn criticism, particularly as she campaigns for higher office.
Los Angeles City Councilmember Nithya Raman has faced scrutiny over her attendance record, with critics pointing to a significant number of missed votes and council meetings. This pattern of absence has become a focal point, especially as Raman campaigns for the mayoral office.
Earlier this year, Raman missed several consecutive meetings of the City Council Homelessness and Housing Committee, which she chaired at the time. Her stated reason for these absences was scheduling conflicts with the Budget Committee.
During a recent debate, Mayor Karen Bass stated that Raman had "missed several thousand votes because you don’t show up to work." Raman responded by acknowledging that council members "all miss days of council." She attributed some absences to Mayor Bass appointing her to external boards that conflicted with council meeting times, as well as child care and illness.
However, Raman's attendance record was also notable during the vote on the Palisades Fire recovery in 2025. On that occasion, she was absent from the City Council meeting to attend the unveiling of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for actress Mindy Kaling. Raman cited their shared South Asian heritage as her reason for attending, noting that Kaling is also a campaign donor. Following this, Raman did release a plan for rebuilding the affected areas, but her visit and proposal came after the critical vote.
Councilmember Traci Park commented on Raman's involvement, stating, "Nithya Raman never once offered to help, ever," a remark that casts doubt on Raman's engagement with the issue prior to her mayoral campaign.
The article suggests that while personal commitments and outside interests are common, the nature of public service requires consistent presence, especially for those seeking higher office such as mayor. The piece implies that an "absentee executive" risks allowing special interests to unduly influence the political agenda, drawing a parallel to criticisms leveled against President Joe Biden's perceived work habits.
Raman is noted as being backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, with the article suggesting that this political alignment could lead to significant influence if Raman does not maintain a consistent presence in her official duties.