More than 300,000 Los Angeles voters who backed losing candidates in the mayoral primary are crucial for the Nov. 3 runoff between Karen Bass and Nithya Raman. Their choices could define who will lead the city for the next four years.
The Spencer Pratt Vote
The largest group within this segment is the nearly 218,000 voters who supported Spencer Pratt, a Republican. His strongest support came from areas like Pacific Palisades and other conservative neighborhoods. Pratt continues to criticize both Bass and Raman.
“The Pratt vote is of critical importance,” said Dan Schnur, a former Republican consultant and professor. “It wasn’t enough for Pratt to make the runoff, but in a close election, his supporters could be decisive.”
Bass and Raman Strategies
Bass and Raman must appeal to Pratt voters while retaining their liberal and progressive base. Analysts like Fernando Guerra, a political science professor, emphasize the delicate balance required. “You don’t want a message to Pratt voters that gains one vote but loses more from your base,” he noted.
Outreach and Messaging
Both campaigns may use outside spending groups and surrogates to approach Pratt voters. Bass’s key ally is the Police Protective League, representing Los Angeles police officers. This group is focusing on areas where Pratt performed well, like the Harbor and parts of the San Fernando Valley and Westside.
Tom Saggau, a union spokesperson, stated, “The more voters know about Raman, her record, and the DSA agenda, the more they gravitate away from her.” The union plans significant spending on ads highlighting Raman’s ties to the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), an organization criticized by both conservatives and mainstream Democrats for its stance on issues like police and prisons.
More conservative allies of Bass, including Councilmembers Traci Park and John Lee, along with Rick Caruso, support the mayor while critiquing Raman. As a progressive candidate, Raman has limited conservative outreach options and instead positions herself as anti-establishment, appealing to Pratt voters unhappy with Bass.
Addressing Voter Concerns
In her campaign, Raman has addressed voters’ frustrations with local governance. After securing a spot in the runoff, she noted, “Pratt voiced the fear and anger of many in the city. People are upset with the current conditions and lack of leadership.” Raman’s campaign avoids major cultural issues, focusing instead on addressing practical urban concerns like streetlight repairs and potholes.
Raman has visited Pratt’s base in the Palisades, discussing issues like the fire that destroyed Pratt’s home, which prompted his mayoral bid.
Policy Differences
Issues like the anti-encampment zone law, supported by Bass but opposed by Raman, highlight their policy differences. Bass promotes increased policing, while Raman calls for maintaining but not expanding the police force.
Pratt voters have mixed reactions. Lisa Becker from El Sereno intends to support Bass, viewing her as a preferable candidate. Jay Handal, a Pratt voter from the Sawtelle Neighborhood Council, plans to vote for Raman, citing dissatisfaction with Bass’s tenure.
Pratt’s Stance
Pratt critiques both candidates but refrains from endorsing either. Political consultant Matt Klink suggests that any endorsement could damage Pratt’s credibility.
Potential Election Impact
LMU Professor Guerra predicts many Pratt voters might abstain from voting in the runoff. However, Republican consultant Mike Murphy argues, “If someone gains a meaningful edge with Pratt voters, it could tip the election.”