Nithya Raman stands by her comments on ‘genocide,’ unsettling the Jewish audience

Nithya Raman stepped into a contentious topic during her mayoral campaign at the Jewish Los Angeles Mayoral Forum on Tuesday night.

The Los Angeles City Council member defended her choice to label Israel’s actions in Gaza as “genocide,” which elicited a mixed reaction from the audience of around 1,000 at the Skirball Cultural Center.

Raman acknowledged the painful implications of the term. “I understand its historical context and the weight of that historical context for the world, not just this for the room but for the world,” she remarked.

She explained that her use of the term stemmed from the distressing reports and images she had encountered. “I used it because experts have referred to what’s happening in that way, and I felt compelled to speak out about the troubling issues we see, the images that are emerging, the targeting of hospitals, and the deaths of children,” Raman added.

This topic resonated strongly at an event targeted towards Jewish voters, particularly as Los Angeles faces a rise in anti-Jewish sentiments. According to the LAPD, there were 46 reported anti-Jewish crimes between January and May 2026, which indicates an approximate 12% increase from the previous year.

Raman made efforts to differentiate her stance on Gaza from antisemitism. “I recognize that antisemitism is on the rise across the entire country and here in this city,” she stated, adding, “I believe it is emerging from all sides of the political spectrum, both right and left.”

She firmly stated, “I never want progressive politics to be conflated with antisemitism.” Raman also highlighted her prompt denunciation of the attacks that occurred on October 7, saying, “I was the first in City Hall to condemn the attacks. I do so unequivocally, and I will continue to speak out.”

The forum placed Raman and Mayor Karen Bass under scrutiny as they approach the Nov. 3 runoff. Both candidates participated in discussions led by Spectrum News anchor Alex Cohen, sharing their viewpoints and responding to audience inquiries.

The forum was organized by various Jewish organizations, including the Jewish Federation Los Angeles and the ADL Los Angeles. Rabbi Noah Farkas and Skirball CEO Jessie Kornberg initiated the event.

For Bass, the pressure is considerable. She achieved 34% in the June 2 primary, while Raman garnered 29%, making Bass the first sitting LA mayor to face a runoff since 2005.

A recent Berkeley IGS/Los Angeles Times poll indicated Raman is leading with 39% compared to Bass’s 28%, while 33% of voters remain undecided. Raman has more appeal among younger voters, but Bass has stronger support from those aged 65 and above.

The same poll reflected Bass’s ratings, showing 28% favorable and 63% unfavorable. In contrast, Raman’s favorability stood at 40% against 39% unfavorable.

Both campaigns have raised approximately $2.5 million, with additional funds coming from outside groups. Notably, the Los Angeles Police Protective League has directed resources against Raman.

Raman pointed to a broader desire for change among voters, observing that those who supported Spencer Pratt signify a movement for transformation in Los Angeles.