A union-backed attack ad against Spencer Pratt, a former reality-TV star running for LA mayor, has backfired spectacularly after the messaging about his opposition to taxpayer-funded housing and calls for more police resonated with frustrated voters instead of deterring them. Pratt surged in momentum after a strong debate performance last week, and the $221,000 ad — intended to undermine him — accelerated that momentum by attacking positions many Angelenos actually want. The primary is June 2, but Pratt remains second to incumbent Karen Bass in polling despite gaining ground.