Karen Bass and Nithya Raman in Close LA Mayor Race

Mayor Karen Bass and challenger Nithya Raman are locked in a closely watched race for Los Angeles mayor. Early returns show Bass with a slight lead as ballot counting continues through November.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, left, and progressive City Councilmember Nithya Raman are running for mayor of Los Angeles. The election will be held on Nov. 3, 2026.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass held a narrow lead over challenger Nithya Raman in early returns following Tuesday evening's mayoral election across the United States.