Nithya Raman Remains Skeptical of 2028 Olympics Despite Mayoral Run

The 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles could be overseen by a mayor who initially opposed the event. Nithya Raman, currently campaigning against incumbent Mayor Karen Bass, gave a clear "no" when asked about her support for the Olympics during her 2020 City Council run.

Her opposition, stated in a questionnaire from the Democratic Socialists of America, cited a lack of vetting, rushed budgeting, and no public input on the approval process. After her election, Raman was one of two council members to vote against the primary contract with the Olympic organizing committee, LA28. She also opposed the expansion of the Los Angeles Convention Center, a planned Olympic venue, and a recent deal outlining city reimbursements for policing and services during the Games.

Raman has since acknowledged the Games are coming, stating her goal is to ensure the city's financial protection. On X, she wrote, "I want the Olympics to succeed. But that cannot mean giving LA28 a blank check while Angelenos carry the risk." In contrast, Mayor Karen Bass supports the Games, viewing them as an opportunity to showcase Los Angeles and benefit its residents and businesses. Bass contends that Raman's stance risks squandering potential benefits for the city.

Raman's supporters, including City Controller Kenneth Mejia, believe she would push LA28 for greater financial transparency and ensure Angelenos benefit, advocating for transit projects and infrastructure improvements. However, some detractors point to her challenges in building coalitions at City Hall. The candidates also disagree on who should lead the Los Angeles Police Department during the Olympics and the Convention Center expansion, which Raman called fiscally irresponsible.

The AKUSO take: This mayoral race highlights different approaches to a major event like the Olympics, with one candidate focused on fiscal caution and the other on leveraging the opportunity for broad city benefits. Angelenos will need to weigh which strategy they believe best serves the city's interests.