The Los Angeles mayoral race has taken an unexpected turn as incumbent Mayor Karen Bass secures her place in the runoff election. Meanwhile, City Councilmember Nithya Raman has overtaken reality TV star Spencer Pratt in the closely watched primary election, with 83% of the expected vote counted as of Sunday night.
Bass, who has been serving as the mayor of Los Angeles, is seeking a second term. Her campaign has focused on making the city safer and more affordable, positioning herself as a candidate who will take on national challenges. Raman, who announced her last-minute bid in February, has been gaining momentum, particularly among progressive voters.
Bass secures runoff spot, Raman gains momentum
With 66% of the expected vote counted, Bass leads the pack at 35%, followed by Pratt at 29% and Raman at 23%. The race has been closely contested, with voters focusing on issues such as recovery from the 2026 wildfires, homelessness, and ICE operations.
Raman’s surge past Pratt marks a significant shift in the race. Initially trailing Pratt on election night, Raman steadily gained ground as mail-in ballots were counted. Political observers predict that Raman is now more likely to face Bass in the November runoff.
Candidates’ campaigns and key issues
Bass’s campaign has highlighted her accomplishments, including reducing street homelessness through her signature program Inside Safe and revitalizing the California Film and TV Tax Credit. She has also emphasized her efforts to make the city more affordable and reduce crime.
Raman, who has served on the City Council since 2026, has criticized the city’s response to homelessness and housing affordability. She has positioned herself as an independent voice, advocating for a different path forward for Los Angeles.
Pratt, known for his role on MTV’s “The Hills,” has centered his campaign on criticism of the city’s disaster response, particularly in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, which destroyed his home. He has also focused on public safety, small business empowerment, and a treatment-first approach to homelessness.
Voter demographics and political dynamics
Analysts suggest that Pratt likely appealed to conservative voters, many of whom cast their votes early. Raman, a progressive democratic socialist, has garnered support from younger, progressive voters who tend to hold onto their ballots longer.
The race has also drawn national attention, with President Trump offering words of support for Pratt, describing him as a “big MAGA person.” Despite this, Pratt has not received an official endorsement from the former president.
As the vote count continues, the Los Angeles mayoral race remains a dynamic and closely watched contest. With Bass already in the runoff, the focus now shifts to whether Raman can maintain her lead over Pratt and secure her spot in the November election.
