Los Angeles Mayoral Race Update: Karen Bass Leads in Polls, Spencer Pratt and Nithya Raman Compete for Second Spot
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has secured a spot in the November runoff for a second term, with former reality TV star Spencer Pratt and Councilmember Nithya Raman vying for the second spot. Bass currently leads with 35% of the vote, followed by Pratt at 30% and Raman at 22%, with 63% of the votes counted. Bass, who has served as mayor since 2022, expressed her dedication to the city and her plans for victory in November.
Despite Bass's lead in polls and endorsements from Gov. Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris, she faced a tough challenge from Pratt and Raman. Bass has been criticized for being out of the country during destructive wildfires and has focused on addressing homelessness and immigration raids in the city. She highlighted progress in reducing homelessness and crime rates during her term.
Pratt, a Republican and former reality TV star, has been critical of Bass, blaming her for the city's issues with potholes, sidewalks, and lighting. He aims to enforce the law and improve safety in parks and schools if elected. Raman, a city councilmember and member of the Democratic Socialists of America, entered the race with a focus on affordable housing and revitalizing Hollywood's film and TV industry. She has also criticized Bass's handling of homelessness.
The upcoming mayoral election in Los Angeles will be crucial as the city grapples with homelessness, public safety concerns, and prepares to host the 2028 Olympics. The top two candidates from the election will advance to the runoff if no candidate secures more than 50% of the vote. The race remains competitive as Pratt and Raman continue to vie for the second spot to challenge Bass in the November runoff.