Lakers Governor Jeanie Buss Donates to Spencer Pratt’s LA Mayoral Campaign
Jeanie Buss, governor of the Los Angeles Lakers, has donated the maximum allowable amount of $1,800 to the mayoral campaign of Spencer Pratt, a reality television personality running as a political newcomer. The contribution, disclosed in a campaign finance filing on Monday, April 29, 2026, offers a significant boost to Pratt’s candidacy ahead of the June 2 primary election.
A Boost for a Nontraditional Candidate
The donation from Buss, a prominent figure in Los Angeles business and sports, is seen as lending credibility to Pratt’s campaign. “A donation like this is a double benefit,” said Dan Schnur, a longtime California political strategist and professor at USC, UC Berkeley and Pepperdine. “Not only is the money very helpful to the campaign, but a respected business and community leader like Buss lends an aura of credibility that’s especially valuable to a nontraditional candidate like Pratt.” Schnur further noted the donation’s impact, stating, “It’s not quite as good as a check from LeBron, but it’s pretty close.”
Pratt’s Campaign Focus
Pratt, known for his role in the reality television show “The Hills,” launched his campaign following the Palisades fire, focusing his platform on criticism of the city’s disaster response, public safety, and homelessness policies, including those implemented by current Mayor Karen Bass. He has raised nearly $540,000 since January 1, 2026, according to reports.
Buss Family Political Contributions
The donation from Jeanie Buss is not the only contribution from the family. Johnny Buss, another member of the Buss family, too donated the maximum $1,800 to Mayor Karen Bass’ reelection effort on Monday, April 29, 2026, demonstrating a split in political support within the family.
The Crowded LA Mayoral Race
The Los Angeles mayoral race remains competitive, with several candidates vying for the position. Recent polling suggests that no candidate is likely to secure more than 50% of the vote in the primary, potentially leading to a November runoff election. Spencer Pratt and Nithya Raman are currently leading the fundraising race.
Key Takeaways
- Jeanie Buss donated $1,800, the maximum allowable amount, to Spencer Pratt’s mayoral campaign.
- The donation is viewed as a credibility boost for Pratt, a political newcomer.
- Johnny Buss donated $1,800 to incumbent Mayor Karen Bass’ reelection campaign.
- The LA mayoral race is crowded and likely headed for a November runoff.