Former reality-TV star Spencer Pratt is using viral AI-generated campaign videos to reshape the 2026 Los Angeles mayoral race.
The strategy marks a shift in political campaigning, where synthetic media is used to attract digital audiences and disrupt traditional candidate visibility in a crowded field.
Pratt, 42 [1], has seen his profile rise since the AI videos began circulating in May 2026 [2]. The content has gained traction across social media platforms, helping the candidate secure a second-place position in recent polling [3].
While the videos have driven his visibility, they have also raised questions about the authenticity of his campaign messaging. When asked about the origin of the synthetic content, Pratt said, "These videos are fan-made" [4].
The candidate is seeking to pivot from his public image as a reality-TV villain to a serious political figure [5]. This transition follows a period of personal tragedy in 2025, when a fire in the Palisades destroyed his home [6].
Campaign analysts said that Pratt is capitalizing on the "manosphere" and digital-first audiences to differentiate himself from other candidates [7]. By leveraging AI-generated imagery and viral loops, he has managed to maintain a consistent presence in the news cycle without relying solely on traditional town halls or policy papers.
The use of these tools has sparked a broader debate in Los Angeles regarding the role of "AI slop" in democratic processes [7]. Despite inconsistencies in his messaging, the digital strategy appears to be working to maintain his polling momentum as the election cycle progresses [8].
“"These videos are fan-made," Pratt said.”
The rise of Spencer Pratt in the Los Angeles mayoral polls demonstrates a growing trend where viral, synthetic content can bypass traditional political gatekeepers. By prioritizing digital engagement over conventional policy platforms, the campaign tests whether AI-driven visibility can translate into actual electoral victory in a major U.S. city.
