Reality television personality and Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt has filed a formal election complaint against Mayor Karen Bass, alleging she violated California campaign laws by electioneering near a ballot box.
Pratt, running as an Independent candidate, announced the complaint Tuesday via social media. He accused Bass of filming herself encouraging voters to cast ballots while standing near a ballot drop box, which he said violated state law prohibiting campaign activity within 100 feet of voting locations.
The Allegations
Pratt’s attorney, Peter McNulty, formally filed the complaint and requested an official investigation into what he described as illegal electioneering by Bass. McNulty wrote that such activity near voters “has the potential to intimidate and improperly influence voters; which is exactly why these laws and restrictions are in place to begin with.”
The complaint centers on a campaign video posted by Bass that allegedly showed her standing near a ballot box while encouraging supporters to vote. Pratt argued the mayor’s actions demonstrated a disregard for election laws that should apply equally to all candidates.
The Response
Bass’s campaign denied the allegations and questioned the credibility of Pratt’s complaint. “His complaint is blatantly false. There were two locations filmed for this video, one 200-plus feet away from the ballot box (with signs) and one next to the ballot box (no signs),” Bass campaign spokesperson Alex Stack said.
Stack also dismissed Pratt’s campaign generally, stating the mayor’s team follows election rules while questioning Pratt’s campaign operations. Bass’s campaign emphasized their compliance with all applicable state election laws.
What Happens Next
The complaint has been submitted to local and state authorities for review, though no formal investigation has been publicly announced. City and state officials have not yet responded to the allegations or indicated whether they will pursue the matter.
The dispute marks another point of contention in the closely watched Los Angeles mayoral race, with both campaigns intensifying their positions ahead of the election.
This story has been updated. CNN’s political team contributed to this report.
