Karen Bass Secures Place in November Runoff
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has officially advanced to the November runoff election, according to projections released after more than 60% of expected votes were counted in the city’s mayoral primary.
Bass led the field with approximately 35% of the vote, followed by television personality and Republican candidate Spencer Pratt with 30%. City Councilmember Nithya Raman trailed in third place with 22%, while election officials continued processing remaining ballots.
Race for Second Spot Remains Competitive
Although Bass has secured a position in the general election, the contest for the second runoff spot remains too close to call.
Spencer Pratt maintained a narrow lead over Raman as vote counting continued. Election officials expect additional mail-in ballots to be processed in the coming days before final results are certified.
Key Issues Shaping the Election
Voters focused on several major challenges facing Los Angeles, including:
- Recovery from the 2025 wildfires
- Homelessness and housing affordability
- Immigration enforcement and ICE operations
- Public safety
- Economic development
These issues have dominated campaign discussions throughout the election cycle.
Candidates Bring Different Backgrounds
Karen Bass, the incumbent mayor, previously served in the U.S. Congress and is seeking a second term.
Nithya Raman currently serves on the Los Angeles City Council and has campaigned on housing and community-focused policies.
Spencer Pratt, known nationally from reality television, entered the race as a political outsider and has attracted significant media attention throughout the campaign.
What Happens Next?
Los Angeles uses a nonpartisan election system. The two candidates receiving the most votes will advance to the general election scheduled for November.
With thousands of ballots still being counted, election officials have not yet confirmed who will face Bass in the final runoff.