Reality TV Personality Spencer Pratt Runs for Los Angeles Mayor

Former reality television personality Spencer Pratt is among 13 candidates competing to replace Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass in the June 2 first-round vote. Los Angeles Magazine reports that Bass became the city's first female mayor after her 2022 election and is seeking re-election. The magazine notes the unusually large field of challengers in a race that typically favors the incumbent.

The Los Angeles Times attributes the crowded field to several recent events in the city. These include devastating fires in 2025, immigration enforcement actions, and a $1 billion city budget deficit. The next mayor will also oversee preparations for the 2028 Olympics.

Pratt lost his home in the Palisades fire. He has used social media and debate appearances to position himself as a Republican contender. The Times describes his campaign style as drawing on Hollywood experience and online reach.

Pratt has outpaced other candidates in fundraising. " Other notable candidates include council member Nithya Raman, businessman Adam Miller, and housing advocate Reverend Rae Huang. Time Magazine reports that no candidate is expected to win outright on June 2.

The top two finishers will advance to a November runoff that coincides with midterm elections and a vote on Governor Gavin Newsom's replacement.

The Guardian reports that the Enhanced Games begin this weekend in Las Vegas. Forty-two athletes will compete in swimming, track and field, weightlifting, and strongman events that permit performance-enhancing drugs. Winners receive $250,000 per sport, with an additional $250,000 for breaking a world record.

The 50-meter freestyle and 100-meter sprint events offer $1 million prizes. A satirical Indian political party called the Cockroach People's Party has gained nearly 14 million social media followers. The party's X account was blocked in India on Thursday before a new account launched under the handle #cockroachisback.