Spencer Pratt and Nithya Raman Step Up for Fundraising as LA Mayor’s Race Heats Up
Los Angeles Mayoral Race Heats Up as Fundraising Efforts Surge
LOS ANGELES – The race for Los Angeles Mayor is intensifying as candidates submit their latest financial disclosures, revealing significant support for challengers aiming to unseat incumbent Mayor Karen Bass. With the primary election scheduled for June 2, Bass faces 13 challengers, including reality television personality Spencer Pratt, Councilwoman Nithya Raman, and tech entrepreneur Adam Miller.
In terms of fundraising, Pratt and Raman are leading recent efforts. Pratt has accumulated nearly $540,000 since January 1, transforming into what his campaign describes as a "legitimate top-tier candidate" by criticizing the city’s handling of the 2025 Palisades fire. Raman, who joined the race later in February, has raised approximately $530,000, largely backed by contributions from the entertainment industry. Meanwhile, Mayor Bass, despite trailing in recent fundraising, boasts a substantial total of around $3.7 million, a figure that includes matching funds and early contributions for the 2024 campaign.
A recent UCLA Luskin poll indicates that 40% of voters remain undecided ahead of the primary, with Bass leading at 25%, followed by Pratt at 11% and Raman at 9%. This uncertainty is critical as the election approaches. Analysts have pointed out that the high undecided percentage may suggest potential shifts in voter sentiment or even a protest vote against the incumbent.
The presence of 14 candidates raises questions about how the vote will be split. Should Bass fail to secure over 50% on June 2, she could be drawn into a runoff against the second-highest finisher, which would extend the campaign.
Political observers note that the dynamics of the race reflect a broader referendum on the city’s future. USC Professor Dan Schnur remarked that the leading candidates seem "evenly matched" as they head into the final stretch. Bass’s supporters highlight her solid backing among Black voters, while Pratt’s campaign claims his growing support indicates a desire for political change.
As the race progresses, the timeline is straightforward: voters will head to the polls on June 2. If no candidate achieves a majority, the top two will continue to campaign until the general election in November, which could culminate in a runoff if necessary.
Looking ahead, the coming weeks are crucial for all candidates as they strive to establish their positions and sway the undecided electorate.
