Published：Jun 3, 05:33Last updated：Jun 9, 16:05

LA Mayoral Runoff Set Between Bass and Raman After Trump-Backed Pratt Defeated

Jun. 3, 2026 05:33

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advanced to a November runoff after failing to secure a majority in the primary election. She will face either Spencer Pratt or Nithya Raman in the general election. The race remains uncertain as votes are still being counted. The outcome will determine who leads the city for the next term.

Summarized

18News

9Media

Jun. 9, 2026 08:43

Nithya Raman, a left-wing candidate, advanced to the Los Angeles mayoral runoff, defeating a Trump-backed Republican. She will face incumbent Karen Bass in the November election.

Jun. 9, 2026 16:05

Spencer Pratt's LA mayoral campaign, endorsed by Donald Trump, combined celebrity appeal with AI-generated videos but failed to gain traction. Published on June 9, 2026, the story highlights the challenges of blending entertainment and politics.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass will face progressive City Councilmember Nithya Raman in a November 2026 runoff election, marking an unexpected matchup between two Democrats and former allies. The race saw Raman defeat Trump-endorsed Republican Spencer Pratt, a former reality TV star whose celebrity-fueled campaign failed to gain traction despite using AI-generated content. The results confirmed on June 9 highlight shifting political dynamics in California's largest city of nearly four million people.CBC News+2

🏛️ Incumbent's Campaign

Karen Bass expressed confidence after surviving the primary, thanking supporters for standing by her administration. The Democratic mayor seeks reelection despite criticism over her handling of crises including wildfires and homelessness. Her campaign emphasizes experience in navigating complex urban challenges, contrasting with Raman's progressive platform.The Independent+2

🔥 Progressive Challenge

Nithya Raman staged a dramatic comeback after entering the race hours before the deadline. The left-wing Democrat defeated Pratt, who had drawn national attention due to his Trump endorsement and reality TV background. Raman's platform focuses on housing affordability and climate action, setting up an intraparty battle with Bass.Toronto Star+2

📊 Election Dynamics

The runoff marks a significant shift from the primary's three-way race that included Pratt. His campaign combined celebrity appeal with conservative politics but ultimately fell short, dealing a blow to Trump's influence in the region. The contest reflects broader debates about urban governance and the role of entertainment figures in politics.The Independent+2

🗳️ Voter Turnout Factors

Officials reported high mail-in ballot volumes delaying final results. The November matchup will test whether Raman's progressive base can overcome Bass's establishment support. Key issues include homelessness (up 12% since 2025) and recovery from wildfire damages exceeding $2 billion, with both candidates offering contrasting solutions.The New York Times+2

CaliforniaKaren BassLos AngelesNithya RamanSpencer Pratt