Former reality-TV star and Los Angeles mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt spoke with CNN on May 16, 2026, regarding AI-generated videos and city homelessness.
The interview highlights the intersection of generative technology and political campaigning, as well as the ongoing struggle to manage urban poverty in the U.S.
Pratt addressed the emergence of AI-generated content featuring his likeness. He clarified that the videos in question were not official campaign materials. "These videos are fan-made," Pratt said.
While Pratt viewed the content as a product of fan engagement, other city leaders expressed concern. Mayor Karen Bass described the trend of AI-generated political content as problematic. "I think it's a very dangerous trend," Bass said.
Beyond the digital landscape, Pratt used the platform to criticize the current municipal leadership's handling of social issues. He focused specifically on the lack of progress regarding the city's unhoused population. "Los Angeles is facing a homelessness crisis that the current administration has failed to solve," Pratt said.
Pratt is currently running in the nonpartisan primary campaign for mayor of Los Angeles. His platform emphasizes a shift in leadership to address the city's most pressing infrastructure and humanitarian challenges, specifically the failure to reduce the number of people living on the streets.
Despite some reports suggesting other topics were discussed, the verified interview focused on the influence of AI and the homelessness crisis.
“"These videos are fan-made."”
The use of AI-generated 'fan' content in a mayoral race introduces a new variable into political communication, where candidates may benefit from viral visibility they did not create or authorize. Simultaneously, Pratt's focus on homelessness leverages a perennial Los Angeles pain point to challenge the incumbent's record during a nonpartisan primary.
