Unite Here Local 11 Endorses Nithya Raman in Los Angeles Mayoral Race, Diverging from Most Unions
Unite Here Local 11, a prominent union representing hospitality workers in Los Angeles hotels and airports, has officially endorsed Nithya Raman for mayor. This endorsement marks a significant divergence from the majority of organized labor groups in the city, which are largely backing incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. Union President Kurt Petersen stated that the endorsement reflects Raman's commitment to addressing the city's housing crisis, supporting a minimum wage increase, and opposing the expansion of short-term rentals, a key point of contention with Airbnb. Petersen highlighted Raman's past actions, including her arrest during protests with Unite Here workers in 2023, as evidence of her dedication. While Mayor Bass has garnered over 30 union endorsements, Raman now has five, with Unite Here Local 11 being a powerful addition. The union's endorsement is considered impactful due to its substantial ground operation, which reportedly knocked on over 300,000 doors during the June primaries. 
