Trump’s Endorsement of Spencer Pratt Impacts L.A. Mayoral Race

Democratic candidates for Los Angeles mayor have long aimed to connect Spencer Pratt, a former reality TV star, to President Trump. This strategy now gains momentum with Trump’s unsolicited support.

Trump recently expressed endorsement for Pratt, encouraging reporters with a statement: “I’d like to see him do well. I heard he’s a big MAGA person.” This connection could affect Pratt negatively in a predominantly Democratic city.

Karen Bass, elected mayor in 2022, faces intense criticism for her lack of presence during major fires in Los Angeles in early 2025. Her main competitors in the race include Pratt, who lost his home in the Palisades fire, and Nithya Raman, a progressive City Council member. With a primary set for June 2, candidates must secure over 50% of the vote to avoid a runoff election in the fall.

The Los Angeles County Federation of Labor, backing Bass, spent $221,000 on an ad campaign to raise Pratt’s visibility among Republican voters, instead of attacking his character. Although Republicans represent a minority in the city, uniting them behind Pratt could result in more votes than Raman.

Political analysts suggest Bass’s camp seeks to prevent facing another Democrat in the general election and prefers Pratt as an opponent despite the risk. The situation underscores the tactical complexities at play in this high-stakes election.