Reality television star and Independent mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt has escalated his campaign against incumbent Karen Bass by filing a formal complaint alleging violations of California election law. The dispute centers on a campaign video posted by Bass, which Pratt claims depicts the mayor illegally electioneering within 100 feet of a ballot drop box. Pratt announced the move on X, accusing Bass of a “reckless disregard for the rule of law” and suggesting that her administration operates under a “mafia-like regime” where rules only apply to the public and not those in power.
The crux of the legal argument, as outlined by Pratt’s attorney Peter McNulty, rests on statutes designed to prevent voter intimidation and improper influence near polling sites. California law strictly prohibits soliciting votes or engaging in campaign activities within a 100-foot radius of a ballot box. McNulty has requested an official investigation from both city and state authorities, asserting that Bass’s proximity to the box in her promotional material constitutes “illegal electioneering.” The Pratt campaign further characterized the incident as emblematic of broader leadership failures, linking the alleged legal breach to the mayor’s handling of criminality in Los Angeles.
The Karen Bass campaign has dismissed the allegations as meritless and politically motivated. Spokesperson Alex Stack countered that the video was carefully produced to comply with all regulations, utilizing two separate filming locations: one well beyond the 200-foot mark for signage and another directly next to the box that featured no campaign materials. Stack ridiculed the complaint, suggesting it was a desperate attempt by Pratt to gain traction. He specifically mocked Pratt’s campaign for its use of AI cartoons to represent supporters, contrasting them with the “real Angelenos” backing the Mayor’s reelection bid.
As of now, city and state election officials have not confirmed whether they will open a formal probe into the matter. However, the controversy has added significant tension to the Los Angeles mayoral race as Election Day nears. Pratt has vowed to continue his pursuit of the case, framing it as a necessary step to protect “democratic norms.” Meanwhile, the exchange highlights a deepening divide between the “insurgent” Independent candidate and the established political leadership of the city.
