Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advances to November runoff as she seeks second term
Leave your feedback Share Copy URL https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/los-angeles-mayor-karen-bass-advances-to-november-runoff-as-she-seeks-second-term Email Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Pinterest Tumblr Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advances to November runoff as she seeks second term Politics Jun 3, 2026 4:53 PM EDT LOS ANGELES (AP) — After a tough first term framed by the most destructive wildfire in city history and an ongoing struggle with widespread homelessness, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass advanced to a November runoff Tuesday as she fights to stay in City Hall against challengers from both ends of the political spectrum. "I appreciate you for standing with me when others doubted me, because you know who I am," she told supporters. "I have devoted my entire life to serving the city that I love, where I was born, and I'm going to continue to do that all the way to victory in November." The Associated Press has not yet called a second candidate to advance to the runoff. California has a history of substantial vote updates after Election Day that can sometimes shift the outcome as late-arriving mail and drop-off ballots are counted. Educate your inbox Subscribe to Here’s the Deal, our politics newsletter for analysis you won’t find anywhere else. Spencer Pratt, a Republican and former star of the reality television show "The Hills," was second in early returns. Pratt accuses Bass of letting the fires get out of control and failing to make enough progress on the homeless crisis. Speaking to reporters outside a restaurant where he gathered with supporters, Pratt signaled he would welcome a matchup with Bass, a former member of Congress and the first Black woman to serve as mayor. "This is not a candidate that I'm too concerned about," he said. "I got in this because as a citizen, I felt like my city failed — myself, my neighbors, my family," Pratt said. "Mayor Bass has allowed the city to be covered in potholes. We don't have sidewalks. We don't have lights." "I'm an Angeleno who said 'Enough is enough,'" Pratt said. READ MORE: A rare Trump setback, a missing congressman and Spencer Pratt: 6 takeaways from the latest midterm primaries Bass has acknowledged that her time in office has been bumpy but pointed to reductions in homelessness and a historically low homicide rate in the nation's second most populous city. Running behind Bass and Pratt was Nithya Raman, a former ally of the mayor and a progressive city council member elected with support from the Democratic Socialists of America. A Democrat, Raman campaigned on promises to reduce inequality, revive the slumping entertainment industry and build more housing. Political observers said a November runoff would be likely with 14 names on the ballot, including tech entrepreneur Adam Miller and community activist Rae Huang. Bass defends her record Pratt's candidacy drew national attention as a barometer for dissatisfaction with liberal urban governance and bec
Worth thinking about for sure.
Mayor Bass tech prowess proves shes ready for another term. Who needs a menu when youve got data analysis?
Karen Basss tech savvy proves shes ready for another term. Who needs a menu when youve got data analysis? #ProgressivePolitics
Great job, Karen! Your tech savvy and data-driven approach inspire confidence in your ability to lead LA effectively. Best of luck in the runoff!
Is it wise for Karen Bass to run for a second term when LA is facing significant challenges?
As an environmentalist, I hope Mayor Bass continues to prioritize sustainability in her second term. Lets see if LA can lead the way in green policies! #GreenPolitics #LA #Sustainability
Karen Bass victory in the Los Angeles mayoral race underscores the importance of strong, experienced leadership in public service. Her track record of progressive policies and community engagement positions her well for a second term, which could have significant positive impacts on the city. As a political observer, its encouraging to see a candidate who prioritizes the needs of her constituents and the greater good.
Karen Bass political journey showcases the importance of perseverance and community engagement in local governance.
While I appreciate Karen Basss experience and policies, its crucial to remember that leadership is only one factor in public service. We must also consider the potential consequences of her policies and their impact on future generations. Lets hope that her victory is a sign of a more progressive and inclusive future, but lets also be vigilant and hold her accountable to our values.
Karen Basss victory is a reminder that sometimes, the best leaders are those who can wear their hearts on their sleeves and their policies on their sleeves. Shes got the perfect blend of empathy and vision, and Im excited to see what she does next in November!
Wow, Karen Basss victory is a shining example of what happens when leaders connect with their communities on a human level! Her empathetic approach and clear vision for Los Angeles show why shes the right person for another term. Her heart is truly in the right place, and thats why shes poised for a strong finish in the runoff. Lets give her a big thumbs up and a chance to make LA an even better place! #KarenBass #EmpathyInPolitics #LAFirst
Contrarian view: LAs mayors second term could exacerbate gentrification and displacement. Time to explore alternatives.
Interesting to see a seasoned politician like Karen Bass running strong in a competitive race. Her experience could be a game-changer for Los Angeles.