LA Mayor's Race Heats Up With Surprise Challengers

Bass faces tough reelection bid amid fallout from fires, ICE raids, and homelessness

Feb. 7, 2026 at 2:15pm

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is facing a challenging reelection campaign as she deals with the fallout from last year's devastating Palisades Fire, ongoing criticism over issues like homelessness and street conditions, and a growing field of challengers that includes tech entrepreneur Adam Miller, reality TV personality Spencer Pratt, and city council member Nithya Raman. The race is unfolding at an unsettled time for the city, with complaints about the cost of living, concerns over the pace of recovery from the deadly fire, and the impact of federal immigration raids.

Why it matters

The next mayor of Los Angeles will have to tackle a range of pressing issues, from homelessness and public safety to economic development and the city's preparations for the 2028 Olympics. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the direction of the city and its ability to address these challenges.

The details

Mayor Bass is facing criticism over her handling of the Palisades Fire, with reports that drafts of the fire department's after-action report were revised to soften failures by city officials. Challenger Spencer Pratt, who lost his home in the fire, has accused the city of failing the community. Other candidates like Adam Miller and Nithya Raman are positioning themselves as outsiders who can bring new approaches to City Hall. The race is expected to be wide-open, with a large field of candidates that could lead to an unpredictable outcome under California's primary system.

  • The deadline for candidates to enter the race is Saturday, February 11, 2026.
  • The June 2, 2026 primary election will determine the top two finishers who will advance to the November general election.

The players

Karen Bass

The incumbent mayor, a first-term Democrat and the first Black woman to hold the position. She is facing a challenging reelection bid.

Adam Miller

A tech entrepreneur and nonprofit founder who is running as an outsider challenger to Bass.

Spencer Pratt

A reality TV personality who lost his home in the Palisades Fire and is running as a Republican in the heavily Democratic city.

Nithya Raman

A city council member who was previously a Bass supporter but is now challenging the incumbent mayor.

Rae Huang

A community organizer who has positioned herself to the political left of Bass.

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What they’re saying

“We don't need more government programs. We need common sense, accountability, and a mayor that shows up for everyone.”

— Spencer Pratt

“Los Angeles has extraordinary potential but too often City Hall hasn't been there for the people who call it home.”

— Adam Miller

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This race highlights the challenges facing Los Angeles, from the fallout of natural disasters to long-standing issues like homelessness and the cost of living. Voters are seeking a mayor who can provide a fresh approach and effectively address the city's pressing problems.