Los Angeles City Councilwoman Nithya Raman was removed from her leadership role on the Homelessness and Poverty Committee, a move she characterized as political retaliation by allies of Mayor Karen Bass. The council voted on August 14, 2026, to replace Raman with Councilwoman Traci Park as chair of the committee.
Raman, a progressive Democrat representing District 4, had been a vocal critic of Mayor Bass's approach to homelessness, particularly the mayor's use of executive directives and the controversial 'council file 3' process that streamlined encampment clearances. In a statement, Raman said, 'This is what happens when you stand up to the mayor's office and demand accountability.'
Council President Marqueece Harris-Dawson, who made the appointment, defended the change, citing the need for 'new leadership to tackle the crisis with fresh urgency.' Park, who represents the Westside, has been a proponent of increasing shelter capacity and enforcing anti-camping laws.
The removal has drawn criticism from housing advocates and progressive groups, who see it as a setback for policies that prioritize permanent housing over temporary shelters. The committee's next meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2026.
