Mayor Karen Bass is advancing to the Los Angeles mayoral run-off election in November, NBC News projected Wednesday morning.
In a crowded field of more than a dozen candidates, she leads with 36.5% of the vote.
Bass’ term as Los Angeles mayor has been marked by turbulence, including her handling of the 2025 Pacific Palisades wildfires, rising homelessness, an affordability crisis, and tensions with city unions. Critics cite slow responses and political infighting, while supporters highlight her efforts on equity and public safety, reflecting a tenure defined by both challenges and initiatives.
Former reality star and Republican outsider Spencer Pratt trails closely with 29.2% of the vote. Since neither candidate reached the 50% threshold, which would have won the seat outright, Bass and Pratt will face off in the November 3 general election to determine the next mayor of Los Angeles.
Pratt entered the race after losing his home in the Pacific Palisades wildfires and criticized local officials’ handling of the disaster. Leveraging his celebrity profile, he has positioned himself as a challenger to the status quo, promoting accountability and emergency leadership despite having no prior political experience.
Pratt's public profile is driving his campaign
His campaign leans on attention-grabbing tactics, including TikTok rants, AI-generated videos mocking opponents, and bold political ads. Pratt has also made notable podcast appearances on "The Club Random" with Bill Maher, "The Tim Dillon Show", "Let’s Be Honest" with Kristin Cavallari, his former The Hills co-star, and "The Joe Rogan Experience."
He has secured endorsements from high-profile figures, including Dennis Quaid, James Woods, Rob Schnier, and Entourage creator Doug Ellin, who vented about the city’s state in a minute-and-a-half, expletive-laden Instagram story post.
Los Angeles, an overwhelmingly liberal city, has not elected a Republican mayor since 2001, making Pratt’s campaign a long-shot but highly watched challenge.
The general election is set for November 3.