Spencer Pratt Launches LA Mayoral Campaign on Wildfire Anniversary

Jan 9, 2026, 2:48 AM
Image for article Spencer Pratt Launches LA Mayoral Campaign on Wildfire Anniversary

Hover over text to view sources

Reality television personality Spencer Pratt has officially announced his bid to become the next mayor of Los Angeles. The announcement was made on January 7, 2026, during a rally commemorating the first anniversary of the catastrophic Palisades wildfire, which destroyed over 6,800 homes and claimed 12 lives, including Pratt's own residence.
At the rally, titled "They Let Us Burn," Pratt expressed his dissatisfaction with the current leadership, specifically targeting Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom. He criticized their handling of the wildfire disaster, stating, "The system in Los Angeles isn't struggling; it's fundamentally broken. It is a machine designed to protect the people at the top and the friends they exchange favors with while the rest of us drown in toxic smoke and ash." He further declared, "Business as usual is a death sentence for Los Angeles," emphasizing his commitment to enacting real change.
Pratt's campaign is rooted in personal tragedy, as he and his wife, fellow reality star Heidi Montag, lost their home in the Palisades fire. Since then, he has become a vocal critic of city officials, accusing them of mismanagement and a lack of accountability in the aftermath of the disaster. His campaign website is currently minimal, featuring links to his social media and a donation button, but it reflects his determination to challenge the status quo in Los Angeles politics.
The former star of MTV's "The Hills" is entering a crowded mayoral race that includes incumbent Mayor Bass, former LA schools superintendent Austin Beutner, and community organizer Rae Huang. The primary election is set for June 2026, and Pratt's entry adds a new dynamic to an already competitive field.
Pratt's announcement has garnered mixed reactions. While he has received endorsements from some Republican figures, including Ric Grenell, a former diplomat, skepticism remains among establishment Democrats. Bass's campaign quickly dismissed Pratt's candidacy, suggesting it is more about publicity than genuine political ambition. "It's no shock that in advance of his imminent book release, a reality TV 'villain' would now announce he's running for Mayor," said Douglas Herman, a spokesperson for Bass.
Despite the challenges he faces as a first-time candidate in a heavily Democratic city, Pratt's celebrity status and his focus on the Palisades fire could resonate with voters. Political analysts suggest that his campaign may keep the issue of wildfire management at the forefront of the election, potentially impacting Bass's re-election bid.
Pratt's campaign is not just about politics; he frames it as a mission to "expose the system" and "disinfect the city with our light." He has vowed to address what he sees as systemic failures in emergency preparedness and housing policy, particularly in relation to wildfire risks.
As the race progresses, it remains to be seen whether Pratt can leverage his notoriety into political momentum or if his campaign will fade amid the colorful landscape of Los Angeles politics. For now, his entry into the mayoral race adds a layer of intrigue to a city grappling with the aftermath of disaster and the complexities of governance.
With the Palisades wildfire still fresh in the minds of many Angelenos, Pratt's candidacy may serve as a rallying point for those dissatisfied with current leadership. As he continues to campaign, all eyes will be on whether his message resonates with voters in the upcoming election.

Related articles

Celebrities Protest ICE at Golden Globes with 'Be Good' Pins

At the 2026 Golden Globes, several celebrities wore anti-ICE pins in memory of Renee Good, who was fatally shot by an ICE officer. The pins, reading 'BE GOOD' and 'ICE OUT', sparked discussions on accountability and justice, coinciding with nationwide protests.

MAGA Commander Critiques Celebrities at Golden Globes Anti-ICE Protest

During the 2026 Golden Globes, several celebrities protested against ICE, wearing pins in support of victims of immigration enforcement. MAGA Commander Gregory Bovino criticized these stars for not acknowledging victims of crimes committed by illegal immigrants, igniting a debate over the role of celebrities in political activism.

California Flooding Prompts State of Emergency Declaration

California has declared a state of emergency due to severe flooding caused by a powerful winter storm. Governor Gavin Newsom's proclamation aims to facilitate rapid response and recovery efforts across multiple counties, including Los Angeles and San Bernardino, as communities face significant infrastructure damage and evacuation orders.

Trump's Comments on Rob Reiner's Death Spark Outrage

Donald Trump's social media post regarding the deaths of Rob Reiner and his wife has drawn widespread condemnation from lawmakers and celebrities. Critics have labeled Trump's remarks as inappropriate and disrespectful, emphasizing that the tragedy should not be politicized.

Governor Newsom Discusses AI Regulations and Rebuilding After Fires

California Governor Gavin Newsom addressed several pressing issues in a recent interview, including President Trump's executive order on AI regulations, the state's recovery efforts following recent wildfires, and the legal troubles facing his former aide. He emphasized the importance of state rights in regulating AI and highlighted the progress made in rebuilding efforts in Los Angeles.