India-born Democratic Socialist Nithya Raman has defeated incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the Los Angeles mayoral race, marking a major political upset in the second-largest city in the United States. The 45-year-old city council member's victory signals a generational shift in the city's leadership.

Raman, who is backed by the Democratic Socialists of America, campaigned on improving public services, tackling homelessness, providing affordable housing and strengthening neighbourhood infrastructure. She also pledged to replace the police chief over concerns about cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

Her victory marks a setback for Bass, 73, who becomes the first Los Angeles mayor in two decades to lose a re-election bid. Her administration faced strong criticism over its handling of the devastating Palisades Fire, along with persistent homelessness and public safety concerns.

Despite receiving support from prominent Democratic leaders, including Governor Gavin Newsom, former Vice-President Kamala Harris and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Bass failed to retain voters' confidence. Raman's victory comes amid growing support for progressive candidates challenging established Democratic leadership across the country.
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