Raman says she's running for mayor because L.A. is headed in wrong direction

A Los Angeles City Council member seeking the next mayoral role paused during a debate and said she needs to keep working on how to build support before putting ideas forward. She emphasized that inviting people in early helps prevent ideas from being stopped. She is a Harvard and MIT graduate and is viewed as highly capable in City Hall, having led major legislation including a Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance in 2021 and efforts to update the Rent Stabilization Ordinance to lower annual maximum rent increases. Despite legislative achievements, she receives criticism for political skills such as working with others, forging alliances, and listening to differing viewpoints. A former deputy mayor described her as more focused on governing than politicking but noted she learns quickly and has strong potential.

"“What I know I need to keep working on is that in order to make sure that your ideas aren't stopped, you have to invite people in before you try and put them forward,” she said after giving the matter some thought."

"“She is not a natural-born politician. She's much more attuned to governing than politicking,” said Rick Cole, who was a deputy mayor when Eric Garcetti had the job and is now a Pasadena City Council member. “But she's a quick learner and she has learned some lessons and has a huge amount of upward potential because of that.”"

"Raman is widely regarded as one of the smartest people in City Hall. She has spearheaded significant legislation during her six years on the City Council, including initiating the city's Tenant Anti-Harassment Ordinance in 2021 and leading the push last year to update the city's Rent Stabilization Ordinance, lowering the annual maximum allowable rent increases."

"Raman entered the June 2 mayoral primary race right before the filing deadline, and just weeks after her endorsement for Bass had been announced. She declined to be interviewed for this story. In a statement, Raman said that she was aware that her “last-minute entry into the race ruffled some feathers in City Hall, including for many people I respect.”"

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