Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt has intensified his criticism of incumbent Karen Bass, highlighting homelessness and public safety as key campaign issues. Pratt, a former reality TV star, posted a video on Instagram showing a playground near a homeless encampment, calling it “Karen Basura’s park” and blaming Bass for mismanaging the city’s crises. Meanwhile, Pratt’s campaign has gained traction, with Hollywood figures like Katherine McPhee and David Foster endorsing him at a recent fundraiser.
Pratt’s Criticism of Bass
Pratt’s video, shared on Wednesday, depicted a Los Angeles playground littered with trash and adjacent to a homeless encampment. He accused Bass of failing to address drug addiction and public safety, stating, “When you can’t even drive to a campaign event in Karen Bass’s LA without stumbling upon a cartel-run drug house at a playground.” The term “Karen Basura” is a derogatory nickname Pratt uses for Bass, translating to “trash” in Spanish. He also criticized rival candidate Nithya Raman for her “treatment-first” approach to homelessness, warning that it could lead to violence.
Pratt’s Campaign Momentum
Pratt, once considered a longshot candidate, has gained significant attention in the race. He has positioned himself as a political outsider, emphasizing issues like homelessness, public safety, and government spending. His campaign has attracted support from Hollywood elites, including a fundraiser hosted by McPhee and Foster, where they performed a song mocking Bass and Raman. Pratt’s campaign has also faced scrutiny, including reports that he was staying at the Hotel Bel-Air despite claiming to live in a trailer on his burned-down property. Pratt defended his living situation, citing security concerns due to death threats.
Bass’s Lead in the Race
Despite Pratt’s growing visibility, polls suggest Bass remains the frontrunner in the primary election, set for June 2. Pratt and Raman are vying for second place, with both candidates appealing to voters dissatisfied with the current leadership. The race has highlighted deep divisions in Los Angeles over homelessness, public safety, and governance.