LA Mayoral Candidate Nithya Raman Under Fire for Controversial Video Targeting LAPD Chief
Los Angeles mayoral candidate Nithya Raman has sparked outrage following the release of a provocative social media video in which she labeled LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell as “a fascist liar.” The video, shared during a campaign interview with leftist influencer Ed Choi, prominently features McDonnell’s image crossed out with a bold red X, a move some are calling incendiary and dangerous.
In the clip, Raman opens with a direct appeal to her audience, stating, “Only you can stop fascist liars,” as images of both Mayor Karen Bass and McDonnell flash across the screen. This rhetoric comes as Raman has openly committed to replacing McDonnell if she is elected, marking a stark commitment to reforming the LAPD under her leadership.
The police union has responded sharply, condemning the video as a “dangerous dog whistle” that may incite unnecessary tensions between law enforcement and the community. Critics argue that while political discourse can be heated, Raman’s approach crosses a line into unacceptable vilification of public servants.
Shortly after posting the video, Raman deleted it, a move that has raised questions about her campaign strategy and messaging. The backlash highlights the increasingly polarizing nature of the mayoral race in Los Angeles, where candidates are grappling with complex issues surrounding police reform, public safety, and community relations.
As the campaign heats up, Raman will need to navigate the fallout from this incident while maintaining her progressive platform. The implications of her words and actions will undoubtedly shape the discourse surrounding the election as Angelenos weigh their options for the city’s leadership.
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Video “LA Mayoral Candidate Nithya Raman Posts Then Deletes Video Targeting LAPD Chief: ‘Fascist liars’” was uploaded on 10/07/2026 to Youtube Channel New York Post