Spencer Pratt may have entered the Los Angeles mayoral race as a candidate people weren’t taking seriously, but his performance at this week’s debate gave new weight to the reality television villain’s long-shot bid to lead the nation’s second-largest city.
Pratt shared the stage at the Skirball Cultural Center with incumbent Mayor Karen Bass (D) and Councilmember Nithya Raman, who represents the city’s 4th District. Fourteen candidates are on the ballot, though only five, including Pratt, are viewed as viable contenders heading into the June 2 primary. Pratt has gained unexpected momentum, running as an outsider and railing against what he calls “failed leadership,” while political observers have pointed to his ability to disrupt more traditional candidates.
