Spencer Pratt, a candidate for mayor of Los Angeles, said he does not want celebrity endorsements for his campaign.
Pratt's approach deviates from traditional political strategies in the entertainment capital of the world, where high-profile endorsements often drive voter turnout and visibility. By distancing himself from the Hollywood elite, he is attempting to frame his candidacy outside the influence of the celebrity class.
During an appearance on Fox News’ “Gutfeld!” program, Pratt discussed his strategy for the Los Angeles mayoral race [1]. He said that he finds celebrity criticism more beneficial to his campaign than public support. "I don't want celebrity endorsements. I love it when they attack me," Pratt said [2].
Pratt said that his preference for opposition stems from a desire to avoid being tied to other celebrities [3]. He noted that his experience has shaped this perspective, stating, "What I have learned is I actually don't want celebs to come out and endorse me" [2].
The former reality-TV star is currently positioning himself as a disruptor in the local political landscape. According to reports, Pratt's mayoral campaign is raising millions of dollars [2], a figure that is outpacing those of rival candidates [2].
Pratt's willingness to embrace attacks suggests a strategy focused on generating attention through conflict rather than consensus. By welcoming the ire of the celebrity community, he seeks to establish a distinct identity that appeals to voters who may be disillusioned with the traditional influence of the entertainment industry in city politics.
“"I don't want celebrity endorsements. I love it when they attack me."”
Pratt is leveraging a 'counter-programming' strategy by turning celebrity opposition into a political asset. In a city like Los Angeles, where the intersection of fame and governance is often viewed with skepticism by some voters, rejecting the celebrity machine may be an attempt to cultivate an anti-establishment image that attracts a specific demographic of the electorate.
