Karen Bass, Spencer Pratt head to November run-off in Los Angeles mayoral race

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is advancing to the November general election run-off, projected to face Republican challenger Spencer Pratt. Bass secured a leading position with 36.5% of the vote in a crowded primary field, but neither candidate reached the 50% threshold needed for an outright win.

Bass's tenure as mayor has been characterized by significant challenges, including her administration's response to the 2025 Pacific Palisades wildfires, escalating homelessness, and a persistent affordability crisis. Tensions with city unions have also marked her term. While critics point to slow responses and internal political conflicts, supporters emphasize her initiatives focused on equity and public safety, highlighting a period defined by both significant hurdles and proactive measures.

Spencer Pratt, a former reality television star and political newcomer, trails Bass with 29.2% of the vote. He entered the mayoral race after his home was destroyed in the Pacific Palisades wildfires, prompting him to criticize the local government's disaster management. Leveraging his public profile, Pratt has positioned himself as an anti-establishment candidate advocating for accountability and effective emergency leadership, despite lacking prior political experience.

Pratt's campaign has employed attention-grabbing tactics, including viral TikTok content, AI-generated videos, and bold advertisements. He has also made numerous podcast appearances, securing endorsements from figures like Dennis Quaid and Doug Ellin. Despite Los Angeles being an overwhelmingly liberal city that has not elected a Republican mayor since 2001, Pratt's campaign represents a highly watched, albeit long-shot, challenge to the status quo.

“

Nepal is a priority partner under our Neighbourhood First policy, and we look forward to collaborating with the new government to elevate the special and multifaceted relationship between our two countries to greater heights.