Nithya Raman Defends Gaza 'Genocide' Remark at 1 LA Jewish Forum as Nov. 3 Vote Nears
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Oct 2
Nithya Raman Defends Gaza 'Genocide' Remark at 1 LA Jewish Forum as Nov. 3 Vote Nears
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Oct 2
Summary
Hundreds of attendees at a Los Angeles Jewish community mayoral forum pressed Nithya Raman over her Gaza rhetoric, and she stood by calling Israel's actions a "genocide."
Raman said the term was guided by unnamed international and Israeli experts and by reports of hospital targeting and child deaths, while acknowledging the word is deeply painful.
Hasan Piker also became a flashpoint: Raman defended appearing on his platform by saying candidates must "meet people where they're at" and speak to voters even when they disagree with a host.
Karen Bass took a contrasting position at the same forum, rejecting the genocide label, while Raman also called BDS a legitimate peaceful protest despite saying Israel policy is not part of her municipal platform.
The exchanges highlighted antisemitism and Israel as live issues in the Nov. 3 Los Angeles mayoral race, with Jewish activists and advocacy groups warning Raman's answers could alienate some voters.