# Los Angeles Mayoral Election

Updated: September 1, 2026

Category: Politics

Tags: LA, Los Angeles Mayoral Election, LA Mayor, mayor, US Election, Elections, Los Angeles, Mayoral Elections

HTML: /markets/la/los-angeles-mayoral-election/los-angeles-mayoral-election/

## Short Answer

**Karen Bass is expected to win the Los Angeles mayoral election runoff against Nithya Raman.** This outcome aligns with broader prediction **market** sentiment observed in late August 2026, which prices her victory at **64.0%**.

## Key Claims (September 2026)

**- - Since last update (~28d): Karen Bass's model probability rose +1.9pp, a `model_led` move that widened her edge over the market.** - Nithya Raman's **market** **probability** fell -2.9pp, a `market_led` move compressing her edge with the **model**.
- The **model**'s **confidence** score declined by -1.0pp, with three minor outcomes now resolved to zero.

**- - Karen Bass secured most primary votes and major labor union endorsements.** - Prediction markets generally favor Bass, but her runoff status suggests vulnerability.

## Market Behavior & Drivers

Karen Bass's secured endorsements from major labor unions support her implied 55-**65%** lead in prediction markets, amid unavailable legitimate Q3 2026 polling.

This market is illiquid, with zero contracts traded since its inception. The price has remained almost entirely static, fluctuating within a narrow band between 34.5% and 35.4%. This lack of activity means the chart does not reflect any market reaction to events in the Los Angeles mayoral race.

Reported developments, including the June 2 primary results that forced a runoff between incumbent Karen Bass and challenger Nithya Raman, have not registered in the market. A subsequent labor endorsement for Raman, reported on September 1, also coincided with no trading activity or price change. The current price near 35% appears to be an initial assessment that has not been tested by any trading volume.

### Who Wins and Why

| Outcome | Market | Model | Why |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Spencer Pratt | 0.0% | 0.0% | Determined: NO |
| Lindsey Horvath | 0.0% | 0.0% | Determined: NO |
| Nithya Raman | 35.1% | 32.8% | A fabricated poll means no significant polling deficit, and incumbents facing runoffs often show vulnerability. |

## Model vs Market

| Outcome | Market Probability | Octagon Model Probability |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Spencer Pratt | 0.0% | — |
| Lindsey Horvath | 0.0% | — |
| Nithya Raman | 35.1% | 32.8% |
| Karen Bass | 64.0% | 67.2% |
| Rae Huang | 0.0% | — |
| Rick Caruso | 0.0% | — |
| Adam Miller | 0.0% | — |
| Gina Viola | 0.0% | — |
| Asaad Alnajjar | 0.0% | — |
| Austin Beutner | 0.0% | — |
| Monica Rodriguez | 0.0% | — |
| Other | 0.0% | — |
| Candidate H | 0.0% | — |
| Candidate I | 0.0% | — |
| Candidate J | 0.0% | — |

- Expiration: December 31, 2026

## Contract Snapshot

This market resolves YES if the named candidate wins the 2026 Los Angeles Mayoral Election, and NO if they do not. The election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, with a potential runoff on November 3, 2026, and the market will conclude by December 31, 2026. Resolution will primarily rely on a consensus of credible reporting, with official information from the City of Los Angeles used in cases of ambiguity regarding the results.

## Market Discussion

Traders are discussing the Los Angeles Mayoral Election, weighing incumbent Karen Bass's record on homelessness and crime against challenger Nithya Raman's progressive platform on housing and police oversight. Karen Bass currently leads at 65%, supported by her incumbency and achievements, though her probability dipped after a controversial directive regarding street vendors. Raman (35%) saw a temporary boost in her prospects after being perceived as winning their first debate, indicating a dynamic contest despite her criticism for a slow infrastructure project.

## Market Data

| Contract | Yes Bid | Yes Ask | Last Price | Volume | Open Interest |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Adam Miller | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $198,985 | $0 |
| Other | 0% | 100% | 0% | $0 | $0 |
| Asaad Alnajjar | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $140,311 | $0 |
| Austin Beutner | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $44,925 | $0 |
| Candidate H | 0% | 100% | 0% | $0 | $0 |
| Candidate I | 0% | 100% | 0% | $0 | $0 |
| Candidate J | 0% | 100% | 0% | $0 | $0 |
| Gina Viola | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $166,044 | $0 |
| Karen Bass | 64% | 65% | 64% | $861,372 | $0 |
| Lindsey Horvath | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $1,687,268 | $0 |
| Monica Rodriguez | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $33,857 | $0 |
| Nithya Raman | 35.1% | 35.2% | 35.1% | $1,489,145 | $0 |
| Rae Huang | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $522,760 | $0 |
| Rick Caruso | — | 0.1% | 0.1% | $494,515 | $0 |
| Spencer Pratt | — | 0.1% | 0.3% | $7,857,675 | $0 |

## What do recent polls from Q3 2026 indicate about Karen Bass's lead over Nithya Raman among key voter demographics?

Karen Bass Primary Vote | 34.3% (June 2, 2026) [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026)) |
Nithya Raman Primary Vote | 29.0% (June 2, 2026) [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026)) |
Karen Bass Prediction Market Probability | 55-65% (late August 2026) [[2]](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)[[3]](https://www.predictionhunt.com/news/bass-favored-at-59-to-win-los-angeles-mayor-s-may-28-2026) |

**Legitimate Q3 2026 polling data on Bass's lead over Raman is unavailable**

Legitimate Q3 2026 polling data on Bass's lead over Raman is unavailable. As of September 1, 2026, publicly available polling data for the third quarter of 2026 (July–September) does not detail Karen Bass's lead over Nithya Raman among key voter demographics for the upcoming November general election [[4]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-08-17/poll-showing-bass-leading-raman-by-double-digits-was-bogus-company-says)[[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026)). Furthermore, a poll circulated in August 2026, which asserted a double-digit lead for Bass, was subsequently confirmed to be a fabrication and a social experiment [[4]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-08-17/poll-showing-bass-leading-raman-by-double-digits-was-bogus-company-says).

Bass and Raman advance to November general election runoff. Incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and City Councilmember Nithya Raman are set to face each other in the general election runoff scheduled for November 3, 2026 [[5]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-election/nithya-raman-advances-spencer-pratt-face-l-mayor-karen-bass-runoff-rcna347483)[[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/). In the primary election held on June 2, 2026, Karen Bass secured **34.3%** of the vote, while Nithya Raman received **29.0%** [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026)).

Prediction markets currently favor Karen Bass for the mayoral election win. Despite the absence of direct Q3 2026 polling data, prediction markets as of late August 2026 generally indicate a favorable outlook for Karen Bass winning the mayoral election [[2]](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)[[3]](https://www.predictionhunt.com/news/bass-favored-at-59-to-win-los-angeles-mayor-s-may-28-2026). These markets typically show her implied probabilities of winning ranging between **55%** and **65%** when compared to Raman [[2]](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)[[3]](https://www.predictionhunt.com/news/bass-favored-at-59-to-win-los-angeles-mayor-s-may-28-2026).

Sources:

1. [Mayoral election in Los Angeles, California (2026)](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))
2. [LA Mayor Odds 2026: Bass Vs Raman Model Verdict | OddsShopper](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)
3. [Bass Favored at 59% to Win Los Angeles Mayor's Race After Poll Tightens - Polls & Odds | Prediction Hunt](https://www.predictionhunt.com/news/bass-favored-at-59-to-win-los-angeles-mayor-s-may-28-2026)
4. [Poll showing Bass leading Raman by double digits was...](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-08-17/poll-showing-bass-leading-raman-by-double-digits-was-bogus-company-says)
5. [Nithya Raman advances over Spencer Pratt to face L.A....](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-election/nithya-raman-advances-spencer-pratt-face-l-mayor-karen-bass-runoff-rcna347483)
6. [Incumbent Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in L.A....](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)

## Which major labor unions have endorsed Karen Bass versus Nithya Raman, and what is the potential impact of this divided support on get-out-the-vote efforts?

Bass Union Support | Vast majority of Los Angeles' major labor unions, including Teamsters and ILWU [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass) |
Raman Union Support | Unite Here Local 11 and the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)[[2]](https://lamag.com/news-and-politics/l-a-carpenters-union-endorses-raman-over-bass/)[[3]](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/carpenters-union-nithya-raman-endorsement/3925302/) |
Union Endorsement Shift | Unite Here Local 11 and Western States Regional Council of Carpenters switched support from Bass to Raman [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)[[2]](https://lamag.com/news-and-politics/l-a-carpenters-union-endorses-raman-over-bass/)[[3]](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/carpenters-union-nithya-raman-endorsement/3925302/) |

**Karen Bass has secured widespread support from major labor unions**

Karen Bass has secured widespread support from major labor unions. Incumbent Mayor Karen Bass has secured endorsements from the vast majority of Los Angeles' major labor unions. Her backers include local chapters of the Teamsters, the International Longshore and Warehouse Union, the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, SEIU (Locals 99, 721, and 2015), the LA/OC Building and Construction Trades Council, Teamsters Joint Council 42, and the Police Protective League [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)[[4]](https://ballotpedia.org/Karen_Bass)[[5]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_endorsements)[[6]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[7]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/05/27/mississippi-one-of-nine-states-with-supreme-court-districts-could-redraw-the-districts-in-the-next-year/)[[8]](https://ballotpedia.org/Daily_Brew:_June_15,_2026).

Challenger Nithya Raman has gained support from key unions. Challenger Nithya Raman has garnered endorsements from a small yet notable number of unions. Most significantly, she is supported by Unite Here Local 11 and the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)[[2]](https://lamag.com/news-and-politics/l-a-carpenters-union-endorses-raman-over-bass/)[[3]](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/carpenters-union-nithya-raman-endorsement/3925302/). Both of these unions previously supported Bass but switched their allegiance to Raman, primarily due to policy disagreements with the incumbent regarding construction wage requirements and short-term rental policies [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)[[2]](https://lamag.com/news-and-politics/l-a-carpenters-union-endorses-raman-over-bass/)[[3]](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/carpenters-union-nithya-raman-endorsement/3925302/).

Divided labor support could impact get-out-the-vote efforts. Although this divided labor support does not threaten Mayor Bass's overall dominance in endorsements, it indicates emerging fissures within the traditional establishment support base [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass). This split may also complicate get-out-the-vote efforts by redirecting some union resources and personnel toward a challenger [[1]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)[[9]](https://calmatters.org/commentary/2026/03/labor-los-angeles-mayor-race/).

Sources:

1. [Raman gets key labor endorsement in mayor's race...](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-09-01/raman-gets-key-labor-endorsement-in-mayors-race-although-most-unions-are-backing-bass)
2. [L.A. Carpenters' Union Endorses Raman Over Bass](https://lamag.com/news-and-politics/l-a-carpenters-union-endorses-raman-over-bass/)
3. [Carpenters' union switches support from Bass to Raman](https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/carpenters-union-nithya-raman-endorsement/3925302/)
4. [Karen Bass](https://ballotpedia.org/Karen_Bass)
5. [Mayoral election endorsements](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_endorsements)
6. [Mayoral election in Los Angeles, California (2026)](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))
7. [Mississippi — one of nine states with supreme court districts — could redraw the districts in the next year - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/05/27/mississippi-one-of-nine-states-with-supreme-court-districts-could-redraw-the-districts-in-the-next-year/)
8. [Daily Brew: June 15, 2026](https://ballotpedia.org/Daily_Brew:_June_15,_2026)
9. [Opinion | Labor unions' influence in LA mayor's race is...](https://calmatters.org/commentary/2026/03/labor-los-angeles-mayor-race/)

## What are the key themes and potential attack lines expected from Bass and Raman in the upcoming pre-runoff debates?

Bass's criticism of Raman | Overly progressive on homelessness and police [[1]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[3]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo) |
Raman's criticism of Bass | Failed on housing crisis, 'pay to play' politics [[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[5]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_Los_Angeles_mayoral_election)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo)[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[7]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/) |
Key debate themes | Homelessness, 2025 wildfires impact on housing, entertainment industry, urban planning/density [[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[3]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo) |

**Karen Bass will likely attack Nithya Raman's progressive policies in debates**

Karen Bass will likely attack Nithya Raman's progressive policies in debates. Bass is expected to frame Raman as overly progressive, specifically criticizing her policies on homelessness and positions regarding the police force [[1]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[3]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo). Bass's campaign has established early attack lines claiming Raman's policies allow homeless encampments near schools and that her positions are hostile to the police force [[1]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[3]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo). As the incumbent, Bass also faces criticism concerning infrastructure maintenance, housing and development challenges, and the effectiveness of city government [[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[7]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/).

Nithya Raman will criticize Bass's establishment approach and perceived inaction. Raman, a democratic socialist and former ally of Bass, is poised to argue that Bass's establishment-led approach has failed to sufficiently address the city's housing crisis. She is also expected to criticize Bass for 'pay to play' politics and a perceived lack of urgency [[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[5]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_Los_Angeles_mayoral_election)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo)[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[7]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/). Raman's platform focuses on accelerating housing construction, restoring entertainment industry jobs, and improving city services [[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[7]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/).

Debates will primarily focus on critical urban issues affecting Los Angeles. Key themes for both candidates will center on the city's handling of homelessness, the impact of the 2025 wildfires on housing, the future of the local entertainment industry, and broader discussions on urban planning and density [[2]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)[[3]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)[[4]](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo).

Sources:

1. [Nithya Raman defeats Spencer Pratt to face Karen Bass in LA mayoral election, CBS News projects - CBS Los Angeles](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)
2. [Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advances to November runoff as she seeks second term | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-pratt-ca624a57c9e717ecdf0f86756b0d370b)
3. [Nithya Raman edges out Spencer Pratt to face Karen Bass...](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)
4. [Spencer Pratt out of LA mayor race as left-wing rival Nithya...](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cx219kxkj1jo)
5. [2026 Los Angeles mayoral election](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2026_Los_Angeles_mayoral_election)
6. [Incumbent Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in L.A....](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)
7. [LA Mayor Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in Nov. 3...](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/)

## How is the allocation of Spencer Pratt's 25.5% primary vote share projected to impact the November runoff between Bass and Raman?

Spencer Pratt Primary Vote Share | 25.5% (June 2, 2026 primary) [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/Spencer_Pratt)[[4]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/) |
Nithya Raman Primary Vote Share | 29.0% (June 2, 2026 primary) [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[4]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/) |
Karen Bass Primary Vote Share | 34.3% (June 2, 2026 primary) [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[4]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/) |

**Spencer Pratt's primary vote share lacks projections for the November runoff**

Spencer Pratt's primary vote share lacks projections for the November runoff. Spencer Pratt received **25.5%** of the vote in the Los Angeles mayoral primary held on June 2, 2026, but did not secure enough support to advance to the November runoff [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[3]](https://ballotpedia.org/Spencer_Pratt)[[4]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/). The available research does not include any projections or analyses regarding how his primary vote share is anticipated to affect the November runoff between the two leading candidates.

Nithya Raman advanced to challenge Karen Bass in the runoff election. Nithya Raman secured **29.0%** of the vote in the primary, advancing to compete against incumbent Karen Bass, who received **34.3%** [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[4]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/). Raman managed to overtake Spencer Pratt in the late ballot counts, which enabled her to move forward to the runoff [[2]](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)[[5]](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race). This runoff election is characterized as a challenge from the incumbent's left, with both Democratic candidates refining their messaging to emphasize differences in their records [[6]](https://calmatters.org/commentary/2026/06/raman-pratt-los-angeles-mayor/)[[7]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-06-10/why-la-mayoral-runoff-is-about-to-be-knife-fight).

Sources:

1. [Mayoral election in Los Angeles, California (2026)](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))
2. [Nithya Raman defeats Spencer Pratt to face Karen Bass in LA mayoral election, CBS News projects - CBS Los Angeles](https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/los-angeles-mayor-election-bass-raman-pratt-2026/)
3. [Spencer Pratt](https://ballotpedia.org/Spencer_Pratt)
4. [Incumbent Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in L.A....](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)
5. [Nithya Raman edges out Spencer Pratt to face Karen Bass...](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/jun/08/karen-bass-nithya-raman-los-angeles-mayoral-race)
6. [Pratt out, Raman in: What LA can expect in the mayoral race](https://calmatters.org/commentary/2026/06/raman-pratt-los-angeles-mayor/)
7. [Why the L.A. mayoral runoff is about to be a 'knife fight'](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-06-10/why-la-mayoral-runoff-is-about-to-be-knife-fight)

## What evidence supports Nithya Raman's potential path to victory despite current polling deficits against Karen Bass?

Karen Bass Primary Vote | 34.3% [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/) |
Nithya Raman Primary Vote | 29.0% [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[2]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/) |
Fake Poll Disclosure Date | August 2026 [[3]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-08-17/poll-showing-bass-leading-raman-by-double-digits-was-bogus-company-says)[[4]](https://abc7.com/post/median-strategies-polling-firm-says-widely-shared-poll-results-los-angeles-mayoral-race-were-fake/19695751/) |

**Nithya Raman's path to victory is plausible despite current predictions**

Nithya Raman's path to victory is plausible despite current predictions. While prediction markets currently favor Karen Bass, Raman's prospects are bolstered by the lack of a significant, verified polling deficit and specific strategic advantages concerning the incumbent's primary performance [[5]](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)[[6]](https://www.covers.com/politics/los-angeles-mayor-winner-odds). A widely publicized poll from August 2026, which indicated a substantial lead for Bass, was later identified as fraudulent and part of a social experiment, thereby removing evidence of a major, authentic polling gap in the general election [[3]](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-08-17/poll-showing-bass-leading-raman-by-double-digits-was-bogus-company-says)[[4]](https://abc7.com/post/median-strategies-polling-firm-says-widely-shared-poll-results-los-angeles-mayoral-race-were-fake/19695751/). Historically, incumbents who are compelled into runoff elections often exhibit vulnerability. Bass did not secure a majority in the June 2, 2026, primary, receiving **34.3%** of the vote, whereas Nithya Raman garnered **29.0%** [[1]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[7]](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-primary-elections/los-angeles-mayor-results)[[5]](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)[[6]](https://www.covers.com/politics/los-angeles-mayor-winner-odds)[[2]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/). Raman's capacity to consolidate votes from other primary candidates further strengthens her potential path to victory [[5]](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)[[6]](https://www.covers.com/politics/los-angeles-mayor-winner-odds).

Raman's campaign strategy targets the status quo and incumbent. Her approach centers on critiquing existing policies, specifically addressing the speed of housing construction, the state of infrastructure maintenance, and the decline of local film industry employment [[2]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/). Raman's campaign actively positions her as a progressive alternative to Bass [[2]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/). She further alleges that the incumbent is involved in pay-to-play politics and receives significant support from special interest groups, including the police union, various business interests, and Airbnb [[2]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/).

Sources:

1. [Mayoral election in Los Angeles, California (2026)](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))
2. [Incumbent Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in L.A....](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)
3. [Poll showing Bass leading Raman by double digits was...](https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2026-08-17/poll-showing-bass-leading-raman-by-double-digits-was-bogus-company-says)
4. [Widely shared poll results for LA mayoral race were fake...](https://abc7.com/post/median-strategies-polling-firm-says-widely-shared-poll-results-los-angeles-mayoral-race-were-fake/19695751/)
5. [LA Mayor Odds 2026: Bass Vs Raman Model Verdict | OddsShopper](https://www.oddsshopper.com/articles/prediction-markets/los-angeles-mayor-2026-model-verdict)
6. [LA Mayoral Election Odds 2026: Bass vs Raman Prediction Market News](https://www.covers.com/politics/los-angeles-mayor-winner-odds)
7. [Los Angeles Mayor Primary 2026 Live Results](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2026-primary-elections/los-angeles-mayor-results)

## What Could Change the Odds

**The 2026 Los Angeles mayoral general election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring a runoff between incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and City Council member Nithya Raman [[1]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-2026-election-e0ef2b83cd8f94556d1c532227bb49dd)[[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[3]](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf)[[5]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/).** In the nonpartisan primary held on June 2, 2026, Karen Bass received **34.3%** of the vote and Nithya Raman received **29.0%**, with neither candidate reaching the **50%** threshold required to win outright [[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf)[[5]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[7]](https://votes.decisiondeskhq.com/races/2026-06-02/california-los-angeles-mayor-nonpartisan-primary). Both candidates are Democrats [[3]](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf).

**This election marks the first instance an incumbent Los Angeles mayor has faced a general election runoff since 2005 [[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[5]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/).** The winner of the general election will begin a four-year term on December 14, 2026 [[3]](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf). Campaign issues include homelessness, city infrastructure (streets and sidewalks), and housing affordability, testing voter appetite for a shift further to the political left [[1]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-2026-election-e0ef2b83cd8f94556d1c532227bb49dd)[[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026)).

Sources:

1. [Nithya Raman advances to November runoff against Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-2026-election-e0ef2b83cd8f94556d1c532227bb49dd)
2. [Mayoral election in Los Angeles, California (2026)](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))
3. [Municipal Elections | Office of the City Clerk](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)
4. [THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf)
5. [Incumbent Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in L.A. mayoral runoff, a first for an incumbent since 2005 - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)
6. [LA Mayor Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in Nov. 3 general election, becoming first incumbent to face a runoff since 2005 - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/)
7. [2026 California Los Angeles Mayor Live Election Results](https://votes.decisiondeskhq.com/races/2026-06-02/california-los-angeles-mayor-nonpartisan-primary)

## Key Dates & Catalysts

- **Closes:** December 31, 2026

## Decision-Flipping Events

- The 2026 Los Angeles mayoral general election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring a runoff between incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and City Council member Nithya Raman [[1]](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-2026-election-e0ef2b83cd8f94556d1c532227bb49dd)[[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[3]](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf)[[5]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/).
- In the nonpartisan primary held on June 2, 2026, Karen Bass received **34.3%** of the vote and Nithya Raman received **29.0%**, with neither candidate reaching the **50%** threshold required to win outright [[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf)[[5]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[7]](https://votes.decisiondeskhq.com/races/2026-06-02/california-los-angeles-mayor-nonpartisan-primary).
- Both candidates are Democrats [[3]](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)[[4]](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf).
- This election marks the first instance an incumbent Los Angeles mayor has faced a general election runoff since 2005 [[2]](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))[[5]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)[[6]](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/).

Sources:

1. [Nithya Raman advances to November runoff against Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass | AP News](https://apnews.com/article/los-angeles-mayor-2026-election-e0ef2b83cd8f94556d1c532227bb49dd)
2. [Mayoral election in Los Angeles, California (2026)](https://ballotpedia.org/Mayoral_election_in_Los_Angeles,_California_(2026))
3. [Municipal Elections | Office of the City Clerk](https://clerk.lacity.gov/elections/municipal-elections)
4. [THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES DO ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:](https://cityclerk.lacity.org/onlinedocs/2026/26-1100_ord_188790_12-23-25.pdf)
5. [Incumbent Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in L.A. mayoral runoff, a first for an incumbent since 2005 - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/18/incumbent-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-l-a-mayoral-runoff-a-first-for-an-incumbent-since-2005/)
6. [LA Mayor Karen Bass to face Nithya Raman in Nov. 3 general election, becoming first incumbent to face a runoff since 2005 - Ballotpedia News](https://news.ballotpedia.org/2026/06/12/la-mayor-karen-bass-to-face-nithya-raman-in-nov-3-general-election-becoming-first-incumbent-to-face-a-runoff-since-2005/)
7. [2026 California Los Angeles Mayor Live Election Results](https://votes.decisiondeskhq.com/races/2026-06-02/california-los-angeles-mayor-nonpartisan-primary)

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