LOS ANGELES (AP) — Following a turbulent first term marked by catastrophic wildfires and persistent homelessness challenges, Democratic Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is seeking re-election Tuesday while confronting opposition from across the political divide.
Republican candidate Spencer Pratt, formerly of the reality show “The Hills,” has criticized Bass for inadequate fire response and insufficient progress addressing homelessness. His campaign has gained national notice as a measure of frustration with progressive city leadership and due to supporter-generated artificial intelligence videos that went viral.
Progressive city council member Nithya Raman, a Democrat who previously supported Bass and won office with backing from the Democratic Socialists of America, is running on a platform to address inequality, revitalize the struggling entertainment sector, and increase housing development.
Bass, who previously served in Congress and became the city’s first Black female mayor, has secured endorsements from most Democratic establishment figures, including former Vice President Kamala Harris and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, plus major labor organizations.
Should Bass fail to capture a majority, the contest will advance to a November runoff. Political analysts expect this outcome given the crowded field of 14 candidates, which includes technology entrepreneur Adam Miller and community activist Rae Huang.
The election comes during a period of uncertainty for Los Angeles.
Bass continues dealing with criticism over her absence when the city’s most destructive wildfire erupted in an affluent coastal area in January 2025. The mayor was traveling in Ghana as part of a presidential delegation during the crisis. Pratt’s residence was destroyed in the Palisades Fire, which claimed 12 lives, and some residents believe recovery efforts are progressing too slowly.
Though data indicates Bass has achieved some success reducing homelessness, temporary camps and deteriorating recreational vehicles remain visible throughout the city. Citizens regularly voice concerns about increasing living costs for housing, taxes, and food. Damaged and dirty streets and walkways are widespread.
Additionally, Hollywood employment has been relocating to less expensive production locations for years. Immigration enforcement actions under the Trump administration have also impacted the community.
The previously growing region is experiencing population decline — Los Angeles County saw approximately 54,000 residents leave between July 2024 and July 2025, representing the country’s largest numerical population decrease, according to federal data.
While crime figures have dropped, public safety remains a concern. World Cup matches are scheduled to begin in Southern California in June, and Los Angeles is preparing to host the 2028 Olympics. Although federal authorities lead Olympic security, there are already worries that the Los Angeles Police Department lacks sufficient funding and staffing for its responsibilities.
Bass has admitted to making errors but contends that reduced homelessness and a record-low murder rate demonstrate her effectiveness. “I’ll keep fighting for LA,” she said.
Pratt has centered his campaign on homelessness reduction and police force expansion, claiming an outsider perspective is necessary to reform city government. Appealing to voter dissatisfaction, he describes himself as “an Angeleno who’s had enough” and condemns “homeless drug zombies” in public spaces.
He gained recognition — though not a formal endorsement — from President Donald Trump, who recently stated, “I heard he’s a big MAGA person.”
This comment could damage Pratt’s prospects in a city where Trump lacks popularity outside conservative circles and Republicans comprise fewer than 15% of registered voters.
