Los Angeles Mayoral Race: Bass and Pratt Head to Runoff Amid Challenges

After a challenging first term characterized by Los Angeles’ worst wildfire and persistent homelessness, Mayor Karen Bass advanced to a November runoff. She faces challengers from different political backgrounds. ‘I appreciate you for standing with me when others doubted me,’ she told supporters. ‘I have devoted my entire life to serving the city that I love, where I was born, and I’m going to continue to do that all the way to victory in November.’

The Associated Press hasn’t confirmed the second candidate advancing to the runoff. California often updates votes post-Election Day as late-arriving ballots are counted. Early returns show Spencer Pratt, a Republican and a former reality TV star, in second place. Pratt criticized Bass for her handling of fires and homelessness.

‘We can do debates every Friday if she would like,’ Pratt told reporters, expressing readiness for a match-up with Bass. He stated, ‘I got in this because as a citizen, I felt like my city failed — myself, my neighbors, my family.’ Pratt accused Bass of neglecting city infrastructure like sidewalks and streetlights.

Bass concedes her term has been difficult but highlights progress in reducing homelessness and achieving low homicide rates. Trailing them is Nithya Raman, a progressive council member running on inequality reduction and revitalizing entertainment.

A November runoff seemed likely with 14 candidates, including tech entrepreneur Adam Miller and activist Rae Huang.

Bass’s record faced scrutiny. Pratt’s candidacy gained attention for his challenge to liberal urban governance. His campaign featured viral AI videos. Bass received endorsements from figures like Kamala Harris and Gavin Newsom. Candidates urged voter turnout in an election expected to see low participation.

Bass campaigned in Boyle Heights, criticizing rivals for their absence during immigration raids. Pratt declared the race a contest between him and Bass, dismissing others like Raman and Miller. Voter sentiments varied — Jose Rivera supported Bass for a second term, while Leo Blain preferred Raman’s progressive agenda.

The race emerges during a turbulent time for Los Angeles, with Bass having been absent during the Palisades Fire, which resulted in significant damage. Pratt lost his home and recovery remains slow.

Homelessness appears reduced statistically, but encampments persist. Rising living costs and deteriorating infrastructure remain issues. Hollywood job migration and regional population decline continue, with a loss of about 54,000 people from 2024 to 2025.

Crime figures have lowered, yet public safety concerns persist as Los Angeles prepares for World Cup and Olympic events. Police funding and staffing draw scrutiny; federal oversight is expected for the Olympics.

Bass acknowledges errors yet cites accomplishments in addressing homelessness and reducing homicides. She vows to continue her efforts. Pratt emphasizes reducing homelessness and police reinforcement, positioning himself as a needed outsider. His campaign taps into voter discontent, including comments on ‘homeless drug zombies.’

Former President Donald Trump’s remark about Pratt being a ‘big MAGA person’ may impact Pratt’s appeal in a city with minimal Republican registration.