A national panel of the Democratic Socialists of America narrowly voted against rescinding the endorsement of Los Angeles mayoral candidate Nithya Raman, preserving the backing just one day ahead of the municipal election.
In a 14-to-13 vote on Monday, the organization’s National Political Committee declined to revoke the endorsement that had been granted by the group’s Los Angeles chapter in September. A spokesperson for the organization confirmed the outcome.
The national body had been reviewing Raman’s position on the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement targeting Israel, with some members arguing her views were insufficiently stringent. Certain committee members contended that the local Los Angeles chapter had violated “R22,” an internal DSA resolution requiring local chapters to question candidates about their support for BDS prior to issuing an endorsement. The local questionnaire did not include an inquiry regarding the BDS movement.
Despite the national review, leadership and members of the Los Angeles chapter strongly opposed national intervention, pointing to extensive grassroots campaigning across the city on Raman’s behalf since the September endorsement.
“We’re relieved that the NPC is honoring the will of our members,” said Leslie Chang, a co-chair of the local chapter.
Raman’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the national committee’s decision.
