Spencer Pratt confronts leftist challengers Karen Bass, Nithya Raman over increasing, dangerous homelessness on their watch

The debate quickly turned combative as candidates argued over the city’s handling of devastating wildfires and the ongoing homelessness crisis that continues to dominate local politics. Bass defended her administration’s record, arguing Los Angeles was already struggling when she entered office and pointed to reported declines in homelessness alongside expanded housing initiatives. But Pratt, whose home burned down in the fires, repeatedly accused city leaders of failing residents on public safety and emergency preparedness.

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Pratt accused officials of failing basic safety planning. He said the fire chief had requested $17 million in funding that was denied and blasted how reservoirs were managed during the fires. He focused heavily on the Santa Ynez Reservoir being empty during the blaze and promised sweeping changes if elected. “As mayor, I will never drain the reservoirs that we need for wildfire protection,” Pratt said. Bass, who had been in Africa when the fire broke out, said "it was one of the worst moments of my life to not be here when my city needed me," saying that despite this, she deserved a second term.

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Public safety quickly became another major battle. Bass highlighted a federal drug enforcement operation tied to MacArthur Park, Calabasas, and San Gabriel, saying authorities made 18 arrests and seized 40 pounds of fentanyl in raids carried out on Wednesday. But Pratt leaned into a tough-on-crime message, saying many residents feel unsafe and want stronger enforcement. Pratt called out Raman’s past vote against police funding.

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The candidates also clashed over a needle distribution program. Bass said she would end the program. Pratt agreed it should be shut down permanently, while Raman argued for expanded housing and supportive services instead. Pratt also promised increased hiring of officers, noting that if the homeless crisis were solved, the city would have more police officers to deal with crime. Bass also argued the city needs more police presence. Raman said she would maintain current staffing while reducing strain on officers and limiting armed responses.

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Homelessness remained one of the night’s central issues. All three candidates agreed that when shelter beds are available, unhoused people should be required to move indoors. On encampments near schools and daycares, Pratt said they should not be allowed. Raman dodged the question, but claimed encampments had fallen 54 percent over the past three years.

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The debate also discussed federal prosecutions involving alleged fraud tied to homeless spending programs in the Los Angeles area. Bass addressed the controversy directly. “I don’t think it’s shocking that you do find corruption in big programs like this, and I think it is extremely important to hold them completely accountable,” she said.

Raman accused Bass and Pratt of focusing attacks on one another because they viewed each other as the primary competition. “They want to run against each other,” Raman said, arguing her policies were delivering “real results” in her district. Pratt quickly fired back. “If I wanted to run against anybody, it would be the councilmember who is terrible,” Pratt replied. Pratt also positioned himself as the “adult in the room” compared to Bass and Raman, arguing he would be more responsible with city tax dollars. Bass, meanwhile, kept her focus on Raman during several exchanges. “She doesn’t understand,” Bass said of the councilmember regarding police department financing.

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When candidates were asked whether non-citizens should be allowed to vote in city and school board elections, Bass and Raman declined to take a firm stance. Pratt answered directly. “When I’m mayor, I want to enforce all the rules,” he said.

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An NBC LA online straw poll conducted after the debate appeared to show overwhelming support for Pratt’s performance. The poll, which asked viewers, “Which candidate do you think won the debate for Los Angeles mayor?” showed Pratt leading with 87 percent support, while Bass received 8 percent, and Raman trailed with 5 percent.