Despite widespread calls for change during the Los Angeles primary election season, the established political powers at City Hall largely prevailed. Incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and City Councilmember Nithya Raman are advancing to the November runoff, having successfully defeated challenger Spencer Pratt, a reality television personality who positioned himself as an outsider candidate.
In a notable departure from recent election trends, all City Council members who sought re-election secured victories. This outcome contrasts with the electoral cycles since 2020, where at least one council seat has been lost every two years to well-funded, organized challengers. Fernando Guerra, director of the Center for the Study of Los Angeles at Loyola Marymount University, explained that voters often maintain loyalty to their local representatives, even if they express general dissatisfaction with city governance.
“When voters are frustrated, they often say: ‘The system’s not working, the only one working for me is my council member,’” Guerra stated. “Voters were frustrated with the city, frustrated with the way things are going, but were able to identify their council member as one of their few advocates, the one fighting the system with them.”
The only significant exception to this trend was City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto, who failed to qualify for the runoff, marking the first time since 1933 a city attorney has missed this stage. Feldstein Soto faced a dual challenge from Deputy State Atty. Gen. Marissa Roy and John McKinney, a deputy district attorney. Conversely, City Controller Kenneth Mejia decisively defeated challenger Zach Sokoloff, despite Sokoloff's mother investing $7.5 million in his campaign while Mejia's campaign contributions were significantly lower.
Several council members anticipated rigorous campaigns, but for most, these did not materialize. City Councilmember Monica Rodriguez ran unopposed. Councilmembers Hugo Soto-Martínez, Katy Yaroslavsky, and Tim McOsker achieved double-digit victory margins. Furthermore, Councilmembers Eunisses Hernandez and Traci Park successfully defended their seats against well-funded opponents to secure new four-year terms. Hernandez, who had unseated an incumbent in 2022, emphasized the importance of direct voter engagement and a strong record. McOsker highlighted the necessity for incumbents to remain connected to their communities, particularly in recent years which have tested their commitment.
Guerra pointed to Councilmember Traci Park's victory as an example of voters standing by their representatives, particularly in her district, which was affected by the Palisades fire. Park faced a substantial challenge from Faizah Malik, with the race becoming the most expensive council contest of the year. Residents affected by the fire expressed strong support for Park, viewing her as a dedicated advocate during the rebuilding process. While acknowledging general frustrations with city issues, constituents felt Park had consistently worked on their behalf.
Despite the incumbents' success, term limits will ensure at least two new faces at City Hall following the November general election. The District 9 council seat, currently held by Curren Price, will be contested by Estuardo Mazariegos and Jose Ugarte. Similarly, the District 3 seat, occupied by Bob Blumenfield, will see a contest between Tim Gaspar and Barri Worth Girvan.
