The race for the mayor of Los Angeles is picking up momentum as the first results of the election are being reported. With polls closing at 8 p.m., early indications show incumbent Mayor Karen Bass leading the field with 36% of the votes counted. Following her are Spencer Pratt, who has garnered 29%, and Nithya Raman at 22%.
ABC News has already projected that Bass will move on to the runoff election slated for November, although it remains uncertain who will be her challenger at that time.
The Candidates and Key Issues
Mayor Bass is vying for a second term, facing off against a diverse group of 14 candidates, including Raman and Pratt. The campaign has seen a strong focus on pressing issues affecting the city—ranging from recovery efforts following the devastating wildfires of 2025 to addressing the ongoing homelessness crisis and enforcement operations by ICE.
This primary election, though nonpartisan, features candidates from varying political backgrounds. Bass has a history as a Democrat in Congress, Raman identifies as a Democrat, while Pratt is registered as a Republican. Historically, of the ten previous mayors who sought a second term since the four-year term limit was established in 1925, only two have been denied re-election.
Campaign Promises and Visions
In her reelection campaign, Bass emphasizes a commitment to enhancing safety and affordability for Los Angeles residents. During a rally to launch her campaign, she highlighted her accomplishments, including legislative measures aimed at expediting affordable housing projects and efforts to reduce street homelessness through her signature Inside Safe initiative. She also noted her administration’s initiatives to revitalize downtown LA and boost union jobs.
“The city I’ve been in my whole life is one I love dearly. We’ve made strides, yet we have much more to achieve,” Bass stated, underscoring her dedication to ensure every Angeleno has a place to call home and can afford to live in the city.
Conversely, Nithya Raman made headlines with her last-minute entry into the race, expressing frustration with her limitations as a council member and emphasizing the need for change from the top. She contends that L.A. is facing a critical turning point, pointing out issues like housing shortages and the ongoing burden of high living costs, reflecting a sense of urgency for new leadership.
Raman’s tenure on the council and her commitment to serving her constituents have garnered her a reputation as an independent voice, acknowledging the struggles faced by families in her district.
On the other hand, Spencer Pratt, known for his reality TV fame, is running a campaign aimed at critiquing the current administration’s response to emergencies, particularly citing his own experiences as a victim of the Palisades Fire. Pratt argues for a change in leadership, declaring, “We can’t afford four more years under Karen Bass. Business as usual will not suffice for Los Angeles.” He’s advocating for robust public safety measures, support for small businesses, and a compassionate approach to homelessness.
The upcoming election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for Los Angeles, with issues at the forefront that resonate deeply with residents. With early results indicating a competitive race, the path ahead promises to be dynamic and charged as candidates continue to articulate their visions for the city’s future.
