Spencer Pratt gains traction in Los Angeles mayoral race

Reality TV personality Spencer Pratt is drawing more attention in the Los Angeles mayoral race after a combative debate performance this week, according to the Fox News report. Pratt, who is running as an independent, has centered his campaign on public safety, homelessness, government accountability, and anger over the city’s response to recent wildfires. The article says Pratt clashed with the debate moderator and attacked Mayor Karen Bass and City Council member Nithya Raman, arguing that current leadership has failed residents. His campaign has also used ads highlighting the homes of his rivals to underscore criticism that they are insulated from the problems facing the city. Fox News reports that Pratt’s campaign has raised more money than other contenders since the start of the year and that some strategists believe his message is resonating with voters frustrated by crime, homelessness, and city services. Still, political observers quoted in the story say it remains unclear whether his online attention will translate into votes, with recent polling showing Bass leading but many voters still undecided.