The Los Angeles mayoral race has taken an unexpected turn as several prominent figures from the music industry have donated to or publicly supported reality television personality and conservative political candidate Spencer Pratt.
The backing is notable because much of the entertainment and music industry has traditionally aligned with progressive political causes.
Music Industry Figures Back Spencer Pratt’s Mayoral Campaign
As Los Angeles voters headed into the final stages of the mayoral primary campaign, several well-known music executives emerged as supporters of mayoral candidate Spencer Pratt.
Campaign finance records show that some of the industry’s most influential figures contributed financially to Pratt’s campaign despite the music business often being associated with progressive political positions.
The donations have attracted attention because Pratt’s campaign platform and political messaging differ significantly from many artists and executives commonly associated with the entertainment industry.
Lucian Grainge Donates Maximum Contribution
One of the most prominent supporters is Lucian Grainge, the chief executive of Universal Music Group.
According to campaign records, Grainge contributed the maximum amount allowed under local campaign finance rules.
The donation stands out because Universal Music Group represents several artists known for advocating progressive social and political causes.
Earlier this year, Grainge presented an award to Olivia Rodrigo for her work supporting social and environmental initiatives through music.
Elliot Grainge Also Supports Pratt
Grainge’s son, Elliot Grainge, also contributed the maximum amount to Pratt’s campaign.
Elliot Grainge currently leads Atlantic Records, one of the world’s most influential music labels.
Atlantic’s roster includes several artists who have publicly supported progressive causes and political candidates over the years.
The donations from both Grainges have generated discussion about political diversity within the music industry.
Pratt Receives Praise From Donald Trump
Pratt’s campaign has also received attention after comments from Donald Trump.
Trump told reporters that he hoped Pratt would perform well in the election and described him as a supporter of the Make America Great Again movement.
In response, Pratt said his primary focus remains public safety and addressing concerns from Los Angeles residents.
His campaign messaging has frequently focused on crime, homelessness, and quality-of-life issues affecting the city.
Fundraiser Features David Foster and Katharine McPhee
Support for Pratt has extended beyond campaign donations.
Last month, renowned producer David Foster and singer Katharine McPhee participated in a fundraiser supporting the candidate.
During the event, the couple performed a humorous adaptation of a popular song in Pratt’s honour.
The fundraiser attracted significant media attention and highlighted Pratt’s growing support among some entertainment industry figures.
Warner Music Executive Clarifies Donation
Campaign records also showed a contribution from Gabz Landman, a senior executive at Warner Chappell Music.
However, Landman later clarified that the payment was related to merchandise obtained for a friend and was not intended as a political endorsement of Pratt’s campaign.
The clarification demonstrates how campaign finance records do not always fully reflect the motivations behind reported contributions.
Artists Express Views on Social Media
Several musicians have also commented on Pratt’s campaign through social media.
Electronic music producer Kaskade publicly criticised current Los Angeles leadership while expressing support for Pratt’s message.
Meanwhile, fellow electronic music artist Diplo left supportive comments on Pratt’s social media posts.
Public records do not show direct campaign donations from either artist.
Progressive Voices Support Other Candidates
Despite the attention surrounding Pratt’s supporters, many figures within the music industry continue to back progressive candidates.
For example, Finneas O’Connell, who frequently collaborates with his sister Billie Eilish, reportedly donated to mayoral candidate Nithya Raman.
The contrast highlights the political diversity that exists within the entertainment business despite perceptions that the industry leans overwhelmingly in one direction.
Political Divisions Reflect Broader Trends
The support Pratt has received mirrors broader shifts taking place across American politics and entertainment.
While many entertainment figures continue to support progressive causes, some executives, artists, and business leaders have become more willing to publicly support conservative candidates and policies.
Observers say these developments demonstrate that political opinions within the entertainment industry are often more varied than public perceptions suggest.
As the election season continues, the involvement of high-profile music industry figures is likely to keep drawing attention.
