Hollywood Stars Align In Final Push For L.A. Mayoral Race

Final Countdown to L.A.'s Mayoral Showdown

The race for Los Angeles’ next mayor is reaching its climax as candidates make a last-ditch effort to woo undecided voters ahead of Tuesday’s primary election. It's a nail-biter with three key contenders elbowing for the lead. According to the latest UC Berkeley/The L.A. Times poll, incumbent Mayor Karen Bass holds a slim lead with 26% support, closely followed by councilmember Nithya Raman at 25%, and reality TV star Spencer Pratt trailing with 22%.

With about 10% of voters still on the fence, this election could go any way. And in a city where the glitz of Hollywood often collides with the grit of local politics, the entertainment industry is weighing heavy on the scales.

Hollywood Throws Its Hat in the Ring

As L.A.'s mayor plays a pivotal role in shaping the entertainment capital's future, Hollywood is stepping into the fray. Productions like Netflix’s "Nemesis" and Fox’s "Baywatch" revival are returning to the area, thanks in part to beneficial tax credits. High-profile figures have thrown their support behind the candidates – actors Jane Fonda and Samuel L. Jackson are rallying for Mayor Bass, while Chelsea Handler and Mindy Kaling are all in for Raman.

“These are the times we need someone who understands government but also understands the needs of the people,” Jackson expressed in his endorsement of Bass.

Spencer Pratt, the reality TV star turned political hopeful, has garnered backing from podcaster Joe Rogan and Doug Ellin, creator of the HBO hit "Entourage." Ellin passionately criticized the city's trajectory, questioning the traditional qualifications for the mayoral role.

Candidates on the Campaign Trail

In the final hours of the campaign, candidates are hustling across the city to make their case. Bass is vying for a second term with pointed critiques of her opponents, questioning the viability of a reality TV star turning political leader. Meanwhile, Pratt is leaning into his outsider status, focusing on practical issues like pothole reporting.

Over the weekend, Pratt emphasized tech solutions, suggesting the Citizen app for reporting city issues. On the flip side, Raman is channeling her message of progressive change, urging voters to look beyond frustration to solutions that deliver for the city's working class.

With over 600 voting centers open across L.A. County, the stage is set for an electrifying finish. KTLA 5 News will be covering the election night drama, offering exclusive streaming coverage with live updates and expert analysis on the KTLA+ app. Don't miss a beat – the polls close soon, and L.A.'s future is in your hands!