The reality TV star faces scrutiny over his choice of accommodation during his bid for Los Angeles mayor, despite facing personal and political challenges.

Spencer Pratt, best known for his reality television appearances, has found himself at the center of attention once again, this time for his decision to stay at the opulent Hotel Bel-Air during his run for mayor of Los Angeles. The choice of such a high-end location, where nightly rates can exceed $1,200, has drawn criticism from some quarters, who see it as emblematic of a candidate out of touch with the average Angeleno.
Pratt’s choice of residence is particularly notable given the backdrop of personal and political challenges he has faced during his campaign. He reportedly received numerous death threats, prompting him to hire full-time security to ensure his safety. This added layer of protection underscores the intensity of the race and the stakes involved for the candidate.
Adding to the complexity of Pratt’s situation was the devastating impact of the January 2025 Palisades fire, which reportedly claimed over 6,800 structures in the area. Among the properties lost in the blaze were the homes of Pratt and his wife, Heidi Montag. Despite this significant personal loss, Pratt continued to press on with his mayoral ambitions, showcasing resilience in the face of adversity.
However, Pratt’s journey towards the mayor’s office was ultimately cut short. In the June primary, Karen Bass and Nithya Raman emerged as the top vote-getters, effectively eliminating Pratt from contention in the final election. This outcome highlights the competitive nature of Los Angeles politics and the strength of the field that Pratt was up against.
Partly unverified — probability of truth 64%, weighted across 10 claims from 2 independent outlets.