Republican Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt is turning heads after making unexpected comments about immigration enforcement, creating a rare point of disagreement with President Donald Trump’s tough border policies.
Pratt, best known for his years in reality television on The Hills, has rapidly transformed himself into one of the most talked-about political outsiders in California. His campaign against Democrat Mayor Karen Bass has gained momentum as frustration grows over crime, homelessness, leadership concerns, and the aftermath of the devastating Pacific Palisades fires.
The fires destroyed thousands of homes across the region, including Pratt’s own property, fueling his outspoken criticism of city leadership and emergency preparedness.
Over the past several months, Pratt has built strong support online through viral campaign videos, direct attacks on Bass’s policies, and a message centered around restoring order and accountability in Los Angeles. His campaign has especially resonated with many conservative and independent voters unhappy with the direction of the city.
President Donald Trump recently acknowledged Pratt’s growing popularity.
“I’d like to see him do well,” Trump said during a recent appearance. “I heard he’s a big MAGA person.”
Current polling suggests Pratt could advance to the general election if he secures a top-two finish in the upcoming June 2 primary.
Despite his alignment with many conservative priorities, Pratt surprised supporters by distancing himself from some federal immigration enforcement operations currently taking place in major cities like Los Angeles.
While Pratt said he supports removing dangerous criminals from communities and improving public safety, he expressed opposition to broader ICE raids targeting workers and businesses.
“I’ve said many times, I don’t want ICE here, but I do want dangerous criminals removed from the streets,” Pratt explained during a recent interview.
Pratt also emphasized his appreciation for Los Angeles’s Hispanic community and culture, saying he has long supported local Mexican restaurants and families throughout the city.
The remarks immediately sparked debate among conservatives online. Some Trump supporters praised Pratt for trying to strike a balance between border security and community relations, while others argued his comments conflict with the stronger immigration policies many Republican voters support nationwide.
Still, Pratt’s unusual political rise continues to attract national attention. His combination of celebrity status, anti-establishment messaging, and willingness to break with traditional political expectations has made him one of the most closely watched Republican candidates in California politics.
As the Los Angeles mayoral race intensifies, voters will soon decide whether Pratt’s outsider approach can translate into a serious political upset in one of America’s most liberal cities.