Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass may have a new political problem on her hands—and his name is Spencer Pratt.
A new California Post poll conducted with McLaughlin & Associates shows the reality television star-turned-mayoral candidate has surged into first place, narrowly leading Bass in what has become one of the most surprising political developments in the city’s upcoming election.
According to the survey, Pratt holds 30.1% support among voters, compared to 29.5% for Bass. Socialist city councilwoman Nithya Raman trails in third place with 23.4%.
While the race remains extremely close, the poll suggests growing dissatisfaction with the current direction of Los Angeles and increasing openness to an outsider candidate promising change.
The survey found that voters are particularly concerned about homelessness, affordability, and the overall direction of the city—issues that have dominated local politics for years and continue to frustrate residents across Los Angeles.
Pratt, best known nationally for his role on The Hills, has transformed his campaign into a direct challenge to Bass’ leadership, arguing that City Hall has failed to make meaningful progress on some of the city's most visible problems.
Supporters say Pratt’s rise reflects a broader sentiment among voters who feel that traditional politicians have had ample opportunity to address homelessness, crime, drug addiction, and housing costs but have produced limited results.
Apparently, in Los Angeles, being a reality TV star is no longer the most unconventional qualification on a political résumé.
The results are particularly significant because Los Angeles remains one of the nation's most heavily Democratic cities. For a political outsider to be leading an incumbent mayor—even by a fraction of a percentage point—signals that frustration with the status quo may be reaching a tipping point.
Critics of Bass point to ongoing concerns over encampments, public safety, affordability, and city management, while supporters argue that many of these challenges predate her administration and require long-term solutions.
Regardless, the poll suggests voters are increasingly focused on outcomes rather than excuses.
For conservatives and independent voters, Pratt’s surge serves as another example of what can happen when public frustration with government performance outweighs traditional political loyalties.
With the primary just days away, all eyes are now on Los Angeles. What once seemed like a long-shot campaign has suddenly become one of the most closely watched mayoral races in the country.
If these numbers hold, Karen Bass may soon discover that the biggest challenge facing her administration is not homelessness or affordability—it’s the voters themselves.
