Overview
- The Democratic Socialists of America’s national Political Committee delayed a final vote and directed DSA-LA to arrange a meeting with Nithya Raman to clarify her stance on the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement and other Gaza-related issues.
- The national panel said that if Raman does not give “clear and unequivocal commitments” the committee will consider rescinding DSA-LA’s September endorsement or opening a disciplinary process under resolution R22.
- Raman told CNN she is both a capitalist and a democratic socialist and her campaign issued a statement saying solidarity with Gaza should include nonviolent protest, legislative measures and diplomatic pressure, including BDS, while declining to say whether she personally backs BDS or will make it a city policy.
- DSA-LA’s endorsement was a member vote of 937 to 484 with 52 abstentions and local leaders say the section failed to ask the required R22 question; national leaders are also seeking a commitment to oppose weapons shipments out of LAX if Raman wins.
- The dispute highlights a widening split inside DSA over Israel and BDS, raises questions about national versus chapter authority, and could affect undecided voters in a close Los Angeles mayoral contest where recent polls show Raman leading but many voters remain uncommitted.