Ronny Sianturi
In a blistering social media broadside, comedian and television host Drew Carey has publicly denounced Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt, urging voters to reject the former reality television personality. Carey’s forceful statement, posted on the social media platform Threads, characterizes Pratt as lacking integrity and unfit for public office, igniting a public discourse surrounding the unconventional candidacy.
The controversy ignited when Carey, known for his roles in "The Drew Carey Show" and as the host of "The Price Is Right," took to Threads to express his strong disapproval. "Anyone who votes for, or endorses Spencer Prattfall for Mayor of LA needs to get their head out of their ass," Carey wrote, his words carrying the weight of a prominent public figure. He elaborated on his sentiment, stating, "I understand being angry/unsatisfied, but at least get behind someone competent and not some serial scammer without a soul or moral compass. Fuck this guy already." The use of such direct and expletive-laden language from Carey underscores the depth of his conviction and his profound concern regarding Pratt’s political aspirations.
Spencer Pratt, a figure who rose to fame through reality television programs such as "The Hills" and "The Princes of Malibu," and later appeared on "I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!," is indeed among the contenders vying for the leadership of Los Angeles. He is challenging incumbent Mayor Karen Bass in the upcoming primary election, scheduled for June 2. This election cycle in Los Angeles has been marked by a range of candidates, from seasoned politicians to individuals with unconventional backgrounds, reflecting a broader trend of public dissatisfaction with traditional political establishments.
Pratt’s journey into the political arena began with a formal announcement of his candidacy in January 2026. This decision followed a deeply personal tragedy: the devastating Palisades wildfire in 2025, which completely destroyed his family’s home. The experience propelled Pratt into becoming an outspoken activist, particularly concerning issues of environmental resilience and disaster preparedness. This activism, however, has also placed him in direct contention with Mayor Bass, who has faced considerable criticism for her administration’s handling of a series of significant wildfires that swept across Los Angeles in January 2025, including the destructive Eaton fire. The juxtaposition of Pratt’s personal experience and the incumbent’s challenges creates a complex backdrop for the mayoral race.
Adding to the intrigue surrounding Pratt’s candidacy are the notable figures who have publicly endorsed or expressed support for his campaign. Among the most prominent are podcasting titan Joe Rogan and former President Donald Trump. These endorsements, coming from individuals with substantial platforms and diverse political followings, lend a degree of mainstream attention to Pratt’s campaign, despite his unconventional background. Conversely, Pratt’s own sister, Stephanie Pratt, has publicly voiced her opposition to his mayoral bid, adding a layer of familial discord to the public narrative. This internal family opposition highlights the divisive nature of Spencer Pratt’s political aspirations and his public persona.
Further complicating the narrative surrounding Pratt’s campaign is the reported, though downplayed, interest in a reality television show documenting his run for mayor. Earlier this month, reports surfaced suggesting a deal had been inked for such a program. However, Pratt’s representatives have moved swiftly to temper these reports, issuing a statement that unequivocally denies any such arrangement. "This is a non-starter as there is no signed contract," his representatives stated. "Nothing has been pitched, nothing has been filmed, there is no contact or deal of any sort in existence. Cameras have not been rolling and there are no plans at all for cameras to film." This denial aims to assuage concerns that Pratt’s candidacy might be a publicity stunt rather than a genuine political endeavor, a perception that Carey’s strong condemnation seems to reinforce.
Despite casting himself as a non-partisan candidate, Pratt’s campaign has garnered significant backing from Republican circles, a fact previously reported by The Hollywood Reporter. This alignment with a specific political party, even while maintaining a non-partisan public stance, raises questions about his true political leanings and the motivations behind his diverse support base.
The Evolving Political Landscape of Los Angeles
The race for the Los Angeles mayoralty has historically been a high-stakes affair, reflecting the city’s immense influence and diverse population. This year’s election, however, appears to be particularly dynamic, with the entry of figures like Spencer Pratt challenging established norms. The sheer scale of Los Angeles, with its over 3.9 million residents, means that mayoral decisions have far-reaching consequences, impacting everything from public safety and infrastructure to economic development and environmental policy.
The primary election, scheduled for June 2, serves as a critical juncture, determining which candidates will advance to the general election. For incumbent Karen Bass, the primary is an opportunity to solidify her support and fend off challengers from both the traditional political establishment and more unconventional candidates. Bass, a former member of the House of Representatives, assumed office in January 2022, inheriting a city grappling with a myriad of complex issues, including homelessness, rising crime rates, and the ongoing challenges of climate change. Her administration has been actively engaged in addressing these issues, but public perception and satisfaction remain key factors in her re-election bid.
Spencer Pratt’s Activism and Political Genesis
Spencer Pratt’s pivot to activism and politics is intrinsically linked to the personal devastation he experienced due to the Palisades wildfire. The event, which occurred in late 2025, not only destroyed his family’s home in the affluent Pacific Palisades neighborhood but also served as a stark reminder of the increasing threat of wildfires in Southern California. The region has witnessed a significant uptick in the frequency and intensity of such fires in recent years, attributed to a confluence of factors including prolonged drought conditions, rising temperatures due to climate change, and the proliferation of dry vegetation.
The Palisades fire, in particular, garnered significant media attention, partly due to Pratt’s public profile and his subsequent vocal advocacy for improved fire prevention and response measures. His personal narrative, transitioning from a reality television personality known for his flamboyant and often controversial behavior to a concerned citizen advocating for community resilience, has been a central theme in his political messaging. This transformation, while compelling to some, has also been met with skepticism by others, who question the sincerity and depth of his commitment to public service.
The Role of Endorsements and Public Figures
The endorsements from Joe Rogan and Donald Trump are significant not only because of their individual influence but also because they represent a cross-section of public opinion and political alignment. Joe Rogan, with his immensely popular podcast, has cultivated a massive following that spans various political ideologies, often attracting listeners who feel disenfranchised by mainstream media and political discourse. His endorsement of Pratt could tap into this segment of the electorate, appealing to those seeking an outsider candidate who promises a radical departure from the status quo.
Donald Trump’s endorsement, on the other hand, signals a potential alignment with the Republican party, despite Pratt’s claims of non-partisanship. Trump’s endorsement can mobilize conservative voters and those who align with his populist appeal. The inclusion of Trump in Pratt’s corner is particularly noteworthy, given that Los Angeles is a predominantly Democratic city. This endorsement suggests an attempt to energize a specific base within the electorate and potentially sow division among Bass’s supporters.
The fact that Stephanie Pratt, Spencer’s sister, has openly distanced herself from his mayoral campaign adds another layer of complexity. Her public opposition could be interpreted as a sign of deep personal reservations about Spencer’s suitability for office, or perhaps a reflection of differing political views within the family. Such familial dissent, when made public, can often resonate with voters, raising questions about a candidate’s character and judgment.
Analysis of Implications and Public Reaction
Drew Carey’s public condemnation of Spencer Pratt is not merely a celebrity’s opinion; it reflects a broader sentiment among those who believe that public office requires a certain level of competence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to public service. Carey’s critique, by labeling Pratt a "serial scammer without a soul or moral compass," directly attacks his character and perceived motives. This type of language, while harsh, is indicative of the frustration felt by many who see candidates with questionable backgrounds vying for positions of power.
The implications of such a public spat are multifaceted. For Spencer Pratt, it brings increased visibility, both positive and negative. While negative attention can alienate some voters, it can also energize his base and generate media coverage that keeps his campaign in the public eye. For Drew Carey, his statement positions him as a voice of reason and a defender of ethical governance, potentially resonating with his own fanbase and others who share his concerns.
The broader impact on the Los Angeles mayoral election is yet to be fully determined. The race is still in its early stages, and the primary election will be a crucial test of each candidate’s appeal. The involvement of high-profile figures like Carey, Rogan, and Trump, along with the inherent drama of a reality TV personality running for office, has undoubtedly elevated the profile of this election. It raises questions about the evolving nature of political campaigns, the influence of social media, and the increasing blurring of lines between entertainment and public service.
The election in Los Angeles will serve as a case study in how voters respond to unconventional candidates, the power of celebrity endorsements, and the enduring importance of character and perceived competence in the political arena. As the primary election approaches, the pronouncements of figures like Drew Carey will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing public debate, shaping voter perceptions and influencing the eventual outcome of this closely watched mayoral race. The tension between Pratt’s activist narrative, his celebrity background, and the stern critiques from established figures like Carey, promises to make this election a compelling one to observe.
