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LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell and Nithya Raman hold sit-down after she pledged to boot him
Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell and mayor-elect Nithya Raman have begun discussions about working together, despite their sharp campaign disagreements. Their contact matters because Raman had previously pledged to remove McDonnell and accused the LAPD of mishandling immigration enforcement and protests, but has recently left open the possibility that he could stay.
The pair met for an introductory discussion and had already spoken about emergencies and police operations. McDonnell said crime in Los Angeles is down 9.2% this year and homicides are down 10.3%, reaching their lowest level since 1966. Raman’s first 100-day public safety plan calls for more 911 operators, expanded unarmed crisis response teams and an audit of LAPD compliance with the city’s sanctuary law.
In short
- Raman and McDonnell have started discussions after a bitter campaign.
- Raman has not said whether she will keep the police chief.
- Her early plan includes more 911 operators and an LAPD audit.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Keeping McDonnell could offer continuity and experienced leadership while Raman takes office, particularly as the city manages emergencies and police operations. His reported reductions in crime and homicides may also support giving the chief a chance to show that the department can deliver results while carrying out Raman’s public safety priorities.
The case against
Replacing McDonnell could give Raman a leader more aligned with her commitments on immigration enforcement, protest response and accountability under the city’s sanctuary law. Her proposed audit and expansion of unarmed crisis teams suggest that public safety depends not only on crime figures but also on whether residents trust the department and its approach.