Los Angeles Mayoral Primary Highlights Key Jewish Voting Bloc
As the Los Angeles mayoral primary approaches its conclusion, attention is turning to a significant voting bloc— the local Jewish community.
While topics like homelessness, cost of living, and recovery from last year’s wildfires have mainly shaped the election discourse, recent discussions among candidates are bringing Israel and anti-Semitism to the forefront, as they seek to attract every possible vote.
The race has essentially become a three-way contest featuring incumbent Mayor Karen Bass, City Council member Nitya Raman, and Republican contender Spencer Pratt, who gained fame as a reality TV star.
A recent Los Angeles Times poll shows a tight race: Bass holds 26%, Raman has 25%, and Pratt is at 22%.
With around 560,000 Jews in the greater Los Angeles area, one of the largest Jewish populations in the U.S., political analysts are noting that Jewish voters could significantly influence which two candidates advance to the general election.
“Bass has maintained a longstanding connection with the Jewish community in Los Angeles but hasn’t exactly solidified her support. Raman is facing considerable backlash,” noted political analyst Dan Schner.
“Pratt has taken a strong pro-Israel stance and seems to resonate more with Jewish voters. His support is reminiscent of Donald Trump’s, though not overwhelmingly.”
Pratt’s campaign has focused heavily on addressing issues affecting Jewish voters. In a conversation with CNBC anchor Sarah Eisen prior to the primary, he underscored the rising anti-Semitism in the city.
“I’ve made it clear that I will protect my Jewish friends and family. I didn’t realize how severe the situation was until it was publicly discussed, with threats from various extremist groups. We want Jewish families to feel secure during worship, just as we want all communities to feel safe in Los Angeles,” Pratt stated.
Several prominent Democrats, including media executive Haim Saban and Ashley Underwood—wife of comedian Larry David—are backing Pratt and even organized a fundraiser to support him.
As the race remains closely contested, even minor shifts in Jewish voter preferences could prove pivotal in this highly competitive primary. Meanwhile, Raman has faced criticism from some Jewish leaders after a recent interview where she expressed complex views on Israel while also standing by its right to exist. She has decided to distance herself from the Israel Democratic Party of Los Angeles, which had previously supported her.
“As mayor, my focus is on local issues affecting Angelenos, ensuring safety, and combating rising anti-Semitism and Islamophobia,” Raman stated, attempting to clarify her position.
Conversely, Bass presents herself as a seasoned leader, condemning the October 7 Hamas attack and collaborating with Jewish community leaders to address anti-Semitic incidents.
Schneur remarked that Bass remains a recognizable choice for many Jewish voters, while Raman and Pratt represent different factions. “For many observers, it’s about choosing between a candidate known for supporting the BDS movement, one who is seen as extremist, and an incumbent who has done a reasonable job,” he said.
Ultimately, as the race is tightly locked, just a slight shift in Jewish voter sentiment could determine who advances in the most competitive Los Angeles mayoral primary in recent years.
