The Race For La'S Top Job: Meet The 13 Mayoral Candidates Shaping The Future

Countdown to Decision Day

The buzz around Los Angeles these days is all about the upcoming mayoral election, set for June 2. With just a couple of months to go, the 13 candidates are hustling hard to win over the city's voters. Among the contenders is the current mayor herself, Karen Bass, who’s fighting to keep her position in a city that never sleeps.

The stakes are high for the next leader who'll steer Los Angeles through some pivotal years. Big events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games are on the horizon, promising to flood the streets with visitors and bringing with them both opportunities and challenges galore. If no candidate nabs more than 50% of the vote, the top two will face off again in a November 5 runoff.

Karen Bass: The Incumbent Under Fire

Karen Bass, who stepped into the mayoral shoes after beating real estate tycoon Rick Caruso in 2022, is back on the campaign trail. Her platform is all about safety, affordability, and tackling the city's homelessness issue head-on with her "Inside Safe" initiative. But her time in office has been anything but smooth sailing.

“I want to keep pushing forward, making LA a safer and more affordable place for everyone,” Bass has said of her plans.

Bass's handling of the 2025 Palisades Fire, a devastating blaze that claimed 12 lives, has been a major point of contention. Questions about possible influence over the fire department's reporting have clouded her administration's efforts. Despite leading in the polls with 25% support, there's a notable 56% of likely voters who aren't impressed, leaving 25% still undecided.

Nithya Raman: The Progressive Challenger

Bringing a fresh and progressive vibe, City Councilmember Nithya Raman, who represents the 4th district, is running a strong campaign. As a member of the Democratic Party and the Democratic Socialists of America, Raman’s mission is clear: housing reform, reimagined public safety, and a robust climate plan.

Raman is not just about progressive ideals; she's about action. "We need transformative change, not just talk," she asserts, aiming to achieve carbon neutrality by 2030.

Close on Bass’s heels in the polls, Raman has 17% support. In some surveys, like the controversial Loyola Marymount University poll, she's even garnered stronger backing as voters warm to the idea of a democratic socialist at Los Angeles's helm.

Spencer Pratt: From Reality TV to Reality Check

Spencer Pratt, famous for his dramatic turns on MTV's The Hills, has thrown his hat into the ring. Pratt’s campaign was sparked by personal loss in the 2025 Palisades Fire, which also destroyed his home. He's been vocal in his critique of Mayor Bass, and his campaign revolves around taking a stand against negligence and advocating for more robust emergency services.

Pratt’s platform is as bold as his reality TV persona. “We’re done letting things slide. I’m here to make sure we’re prepared,” he asserts, channeling his energy into promises to clear homeless encampments and shake up the city’s commission appointments.

The Underdogs and Their Visions

Among the other contenders, Rae Huang and Adam Miller stand out with their unique perspectives. Huang, a dedicated community organizer, is pushing a platform of progressive housing policies and tenant protections. Meanwhile, tech entrepreneur Adam Miller, a familiar face in the business world, is promising innovation and new solutions from an outsider’s perspective.

Candidates like civil rights attorney Andrew Kim and longtime city engineer Asaad Alnajjar are also in the mix, each bringing their own expertise to the table. From celebrity songwriter Tish Hyman aiming to boost Hollywood's nightlife to Bryant Acosta, a small business owner challenging the status quo, this race is as dynamic and diverse as the city itself.

Los Angeles will soon decide who’s best suited to guide it through exciting yet challenging times ahead. One thing's for sure – the city’s future leader will have a lot on their plate, balancing growth and community needs in the heart of SoCal.

Stay Informed and Engaged

To keep up with the latest on the mayoral race and other California happenings, check out the California Post app, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletters. For Los Angeles, the election isn’t just another event – it’s a chance to shape the city's future.