> At a Glance
> – Reality-TV alum Spencer Pratt declares run for Los Angeles mayor on anniversary of Palisades Fire
> – Jan. 7, 2025 blaze destroyed 6,800+ structures, killed 12, and burned 23,700 acres
> – Incumbent Karen Bass, ex-LAUSD chief Austin Beutner, and 15+ rivals already in June 2 primary
> – Why it matters: Pratt vows to “disinfect” city politics as residents still reeling from state’s third-most destructive wildfire
One year after the Palisades Fire leveled his Pacific Palisades home, Spencer Pratt stepped up to the microphone and into the 2025 mayor’s race, telling fire survivors he’s done waiting for someone else to fix Los Angeles.
From Reality TV to City Hall Bid
Pratt, 42, made the announcement at a “They Let Us Burn” rally organized by the Palisades Fire Residents Coalition on Wednesday, the exact anniversary of the blaze that upended thousands of lives.
> “Business as usual is a death sentence for Los Angeles, and I’m done waiting for someone to take real action. That’s why I am running for mayor,” Pratt declared.
He framed the campaign as a mission, promising supporters:
- Expose “every dark corner” of L.A. politics
- Make the city “camera-ready again”
- Replace what he calls failed leadership after the fire
The Fire That Sparked a Campaign
The Palisades Fire erupted the morning of Jan. 7, 2025, as forecast Santa Ana winds pushed flames through the Santa Monica Mountains and into coastal neighborhoods.
| Metric | Figure |
|---|---|
| Acres burned | 23,700 |
| Structures lost | 6,800+ |
| Deaths | 12 |
| State destruction rank | 3rd-most destructive |
Pratt live-streamed the first orange glow on social media, then spent months documenting the destruction and criticizing Governor Gavin Newsom and Mayor Karen Bass for the emergency response.
Crowded Field and Calendar
Incumbent Mayor Karen Bass faces a growing list of challengers:
- Austin Beutner, former LAUSD Superintendent
- 15+ additional candidates have filed or are expected
Key dates:
- Feb. 2 – First day to file candidacy paperwork
- Feb. 7 – Filing deadline
- June 2 – Primary election
Bass won the 2022 runoff against developer Rick Caruso and is seeking a second term.
Key Takeaways
- Spencer Pratt enters politics after wildfire destroys his home
- Palisades Fire ranks among California’s deadliest and costliest
- Mayor Karen Bass defends seat against 17+ hopefuls so far
- Primary day is June 2, 2025
The race now has a high-profile newcomer promising to turn personal tragedy into political reform.
