Spencer Pratt is pushing back after actor and comedian Hannah Einbinder criticized his campaign for Los Angeles mayor, turning their clash into the latest flashpoint in his unexpected political run. Pratt, best known for his role on The Hills, responded on X on Friday, May 29, saying Einbinder was speaking from a “literal red carpet” with security around her, while he argued that many Angelenos are suffering because of what he called failures by Mayor Karen Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman.
Einbinder had condemned Pratt’s bid earlier the same day while appearing on the red carpet at the Critics Choice Association’s Celebration of LGBTQ+ Cinema & Television in Los Angeles. Speaking to Variety, she said there is significant wealth in the city and argued that some people present themselves as progressive while actually being driven by money. She said that was part of the dynamic that helped elevate figures like Pratt, whom she noted has been endorsed by Donald Trump. Einbinder added that it is important to resist that kind of politics.
Pratt, 42, announced his run for Los Angeles mayor on the first anniversary of the deadly wildfires that destroyed his home. He is running against Bass and several other candidates, including Raman and Adam Miller. Although he is a registered Republican and has longstanding ties to conservative and MAGA media circles, Pratt has framed himself as an independent community advocate rather than a traditional partisan candidate.
During an appearance on Fox News’ Fox & Friends on Thursday, May 28, Pratt said his campaign is resonating because he focuses on “the truth” and says what he sees happening in the city. He claimed Los Angeles leaders are allowing tax money to be wasted while people struggling with addiction are left on the streets. Pratt said he wants mandatory treatment and medical help for people using fentanyl and other hard drugs, presenting himself as a candidate offering practical solutions rather than ideology. He described himself as an outsider who is not a politician and said voters are looking for someone who simply tells the facts.
Einbinder also responded when asked whether she herself might consider running for office. She dismissed the idea and said she agreed with comments made by Lisa Rinna about celebrities entering politics. Rinna, speaking at the American Music Awards in Las Vegas on Monday, May 25, also criticized Pratt’s campaign. She said she likes him personally but does not believe a reality TV star should run for office. Rinna referenced Donald Trump as another example of a reality star becoming a politician, saying the country has already tried that approach.
The exchange underscores the attention Pratt’s campaign has drawn from Hollywood figures, political commentators and social media users. Supporters have praised his unconventional style, while critics argue that celebrity alone is not a qualification for public office. Pratt, however, continues to cast himself as a disruptor who is speaking for frustrated residents who want change in Los Angeles.
