“How can she treat a relationship like this and dispose of it once it’s served its purpose?”

Democratic activist Julio Esperias, criticizing Los Angeles Councilmember Nithya Raman after she launched a surprise mayoral challenge against L.A. Mayor Karen Bass. Esperias, who volunteered on Raman’s 2024 re-election campaign at Bass’ request, called the move a betrayal. Raman’s last-minute decision to run against Bass stunned Los Angeles political circles, especially after Bass had endorsed her, campaigned for her and helped her avoid a runoff just months earlier. (Los Angeles Times)