Dispatch Politics Roundup: California, Here We Come Reality TV personality Spencer Pratt has mounted a surprisingly strong campaign for Mayor of Los Angeles, utilizing AI-generated ads and gaining significant traction. Pratt, who identifies as an independent-turned-Republican, is challenging incumbent Democrat Karen Bass, citing her mismanagement of city issues like wildfires, crime, and homelessness. Despite the city’s Democratic leanings and a potential endorsement from Donald Trump, Pratt’s candidacy highlights underlying discontent with Bass’s tenure.

• Spencer Pratt, known from MTV’s ‘The Hills,’ is running for Mayor of Los Angeles.
• His campaign has gained momentum through AI-generated ads and support from some high-profile funders.
• Pratt is in a competitive second place in the nonpartisan race, potentially heading to a runoff against incumbent Karen Bass.
• He is running as an independent-turned-Republican, criticizing Bass’s handling of city issues such as wildfires, crime, and homelessness.
• Donald Trump has commented positively on Pratt’s campaign, though his endorsement might not be beneficial in heavily Democratic California.
• Pratt’s strong performance indicates dissatisfaction with Mayor Bass, even with Bass and her progressive challenger Nithya Raman combined having double his vote count.