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NewsNY Post PoliticsMay 1, 2026United States

Nithya Raman and Police Union Clash Over City Budget and Staffing

Los Angeles City Council member Nithya Raman is criticizing the Los Angeles Police Protective League (LAPPL) for funding attack ads against her campaign. Raman argues that Mayor Karen Bass's 2023 police contract is responsible for the city's budget deficit, while opponents highlight Raman's history of voting against police funding increases.

electionspolice fundingcity budgetpublic safetycampaign finance
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Why It Matters

The ongoing debate over police funding levels directly impacts the city's ability to staff emergency services, manage the municipal budget, and prepare for major upcoming events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics.

Key Facts

  • The LAPPL is running attack ads against Nithya Raman's campaign.
  • Nithya Raman opposed the 2023 LAPD contract that increased officer pay and bonuses.
  • In 2024, Raman voted against a city budget containing over $100 million in additional police funding.
  • In 2025, Raman supported a proposal to cut police hiring from 480 to 240 officers.
  • In early 2026, Raman voted against increasing police hiring to 410 officers.
  • The LAPD has lost approximately 1,200 officers since 2019.
  • The city is preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics amid police staffing concerns.
  • Raman chairs the City Council's homelessness committee, which oversees nearly $1 billion in annual spending.
  • The city's 911 system is experiencing staffing shortages and delays in response times.

Who's Mentioned

personNithya Raman“Los Angeles City Council member and candidate”organizationLos Angeles Police Department“City law enforcement agency”organizationLos Angeles Police Protective League“Police union involved in campaign advertising”personKaren Bass“Mayor of Los Angeles”