Full Breakdown
Spencer Pratt Eliminated; Karen Bass and Nithya Raman Advance to Los Angeles Mayoral Runoff
6/9/2026, 4:29:36 AM
Primary Results
On June 2, 92.5 % of the mayoral primary ballots were counted. Karen Bass earned 34.3 %, Nithya Raman 28.5 %, and Spencer Pratt 25.8 %. No candidate reached 50 %, so California’s top-two primary moves Bass and Raman to the November 3 runoff, ending Pratt’s bid.
Context
California’s open primary lists all candidates together; the top two advance regardless of party. Bass, a Democrat and former U.S. Representative, faced criticism over 2024 wildfires and homelessness. Raman, a Democratic Socialist, pledged housing reforms and a 50 % cut in street homelessness before 2028 Olympics. Pratt, a Republican, entered after losing his Pacific Palisades home in January 2025 fire and ran on clean-up and homelessness elimination.
Candidates
Bass stresses experience and public-safety gains, accusing Raman of tolerating encampments near schools. Raman cites reduced encampments in District 4, proposes rent-control, and frames the race as a fight against donor-driven politics. Pratt pledged to eliminate homelessness and clean streets, drawing right-wing support.
Official Statements
NBC News projected Raman’s advancement after the 92 % count and noted the Registrar’s certification timeline. Bass strategist Douglas Herman framed Raman’s encampment record as a political attack. Raman’s team called the result an “honor” and urged voters to join a movement for a healthier, safer, more affordable Los Angeles.
Criticism & Conspiracy
President Donald Trump called the outcome “impossible” and “rigged,” echoing Rolling Stone’s coverage of fraud claims. Pratt posted a “net swing of more than 43,000 votes” and questioned mail-in ballots. Elon Musk and Turning Point USA claimed California bans voter ID, though officials confirm verification is required.
Conflicting Reports
Pratt’s 43,000-vote swing claim conflicts with the certified 2-point gap between him and Raman. Trump’s “rigged” allegation lacks evidence, and Musk’s voter-ID claim contradicts state procedures. No independent audit has been announced.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’d like to see him do well. He’s a character.” — Donald Trump, former U.S. President
- “I appreciate you for believing in me. I appreciate you for standing with me when others doubted me, because you know who I am,” — Karen Bass, Mayor of Los Angeles
- “Now our fight for a healthier, safer, more affordable, and more joyful Los Angeles continues.” — Nithya Raman, City Councilmember
- “I don’t need anyone’s endorsement but mothers’. That’s who’s getting me elected,” — Spencer Pratt, mayoral candidate
Next Steps
The November 3 runoff will pit Bass against Raman, both Democrats. The Registrar will certify the primary by June 26, the Secretary of State by July 10. Campaigns will focus on homelessness, public safety and post-wildfire recovery. The winner will shape Los Angeles policy for four years.
