California primary results 2026: Did Spencer Pratt win? Latest as Nithya Raman closes gap for LA mayor runoff spot
California Primary Results 2026: Spencer Pratt Faces Tight LA Mayor Runoff Race with Nithya Raman
California primary results 2026 are shaping up as a pivotal moment in the state’s political landscape. With five days of delayed counting, the outcome of the Los Angeles mayoral race and the gubernatorial contest remain uncertain. The focus keyword California primary results 2026 is central to understanding the current standings, particularly in the race between reality TV star Spencer Pratt and City Councilwoman Nithya Raman, who are locked in a fierce battle for the second runoff spot.
LA Mayor Race Enters Crucial Phase
Los Angeles County election officials have released updated figures showing Mayor Karen Bass leading with 34.81% of the vote. Her path to the November general election seems secure, but the race for the second slot has intensified. Spencer Pratt, known for his role on MTV’s *The Hills*, now trails Nithya Raman by just 1.11 percentage points, with Raman’s vote share reaching 26.21%. This dramatic shift has sparked speculation about whether Pratt will ultimately secure a place on the ballot.
The "jungle primary" system, which allows the top two finishers regardless of party affiliation to advance, has placed both Pratt and Raman in a de facto runoff against Bass. With over 1.77 million votes counted as of June 6, the final tally is still pending, and the results could redefine the city’s political future. Analysts note that the close race highlights a growing divide in voter preferences, with suburban and urban demographics pulling in opposite directions.
California Governor Race Remains a Mystery
In the gubernatorial race, billionaire Democrat Tom Steyer continues to trail Republican Steve Hilton, who holds 26.1% of the vote. Steyer’s share stands at 21.3%, keeping the race competitive but uncertain. Former U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra has already secured one general election spot, but his opponent remains unclear. This uncertainty underscores the importance of California primary results 2026 in determining the state’s next governor.
Vote-by-mail ballots, which accounted for nearly 157,000 additional votes, have contributed to the extended counting period. This process has drawn criticism, especially from Donald Trump, who has accused Democrats of manipulating the system to “steal votes.” The delays have fueled debates about the integrity of mail-in voting, with some arguing it ensures broader participation, while others claim it allows for strategic vote counting.
Political Dynamics and Voter Trends
California primary results 2026 are not just about individual candidates but also reflect broader political trends. The state’s diverse electorate has shown a split in preferences, with Bass maintaining support in traditional Democratic strongholds while Pratt gains traction in suburban areas. Raman, meanwhile, has narrowed the gap by appealing to progressive voters, emphasizing environmental policies and affordable housing initiatives.
Trump’s recent comments on Truth Social have intensified scrutiny of the counting process, but his claims lack concrete evidence. Despite this, his endorsement of Steve Hilton has bolstered the governor’s race, adding momentum to the Republican candidate’s campaign. As the final ballots are tallied, the race for LA mayor and governor continues to evolve, with California primary results 2026 becoming a focal point for national attention.
For Los Angeles, the mayoral runoff will have significant implications for the city’s direction. If Spencer Pratt secures the second spot, it could signal a shift toward a more entertainment-driven political culture, blending celebrity appeal with policy discourse. Conversely, Nithya Raman’s continued surge suggests a strong push for progressive reforms, aligning with her track record as a city council member. The outcome will shape the November general election and set the tone for future governance.
Implications of the Primary Outcomes
California primary results 2026 are critical for both local and national politics. The LA mayor race and gubernatorial contest are testing the resilience of established leaders and the appeal of new faces. With over 1.77 million votes counted, the remaining ballots could tip the scales, particularly in key precincts where voter turnout remains high. The results will influence the state’s legislative agenda and provide insights into the shifting priorities of California’s electorate.
As the final stages of the primary unfold, the race for LA mayor and governor becomes more than a local affair. National observers are closely watching to see how the outcome reflects broader ideological divides and voter sentiment. Whether Spencer Pratt retains his position or Nithya Raman closes in on the runoff spot, California primary results 2026 will be remembered as a turning point in the state’s political history.