Business leader John Putnam attributes Spencer Pratt’s rise in the Los Angeles mayoral race to widespread voter frustration over crime, wildfires, and the city’s challenging business environment.
SANTA MONICA, CA — John Putnam, a prominent business leader and former city council candidate, has weighed in on Spencer Pratt’s increasing popularity in the Los Angeles mayoral race. He attributes this surge to growing voter frustration over crime, the aftermath of recent wildfires, and a challenging business climate in the city.
“I think a lot of people are concerned about what’s happening; they really don’t know how to fix this,” Putnam said. “The crime, homelessness, addiction, and other issues in our city are being exacerbated by politicians. Many people are starting to see that.” Putnam, who serves as president of Putnam Brands and Putnam Accessory Group, believes that Pratt’s straightforward approach to discussing these issues is resonating with voters.
“Even if you don’t want to vote for him, you’re listening,” Putnam noted. “I think that’s resonating with a lot of people.” Although Putnam’s own community of Santa Monica does not participate in the LA mayoral election, he emphasized that the winner’s platform will have a significant “trickle-down” effect throughout the county.
“California has a big issue, but especially in Santa Monica, we are a byproduct of what’s happening in Los Angeles and across the world,” he explained. “In Santa Monica alone, 80% of our revenue comes from outside the city. We need to generate revenue from visitors.” Putnam has operated his business near downtown Los Angeles for 40 years and has observed firsthand how crime, homelessness, high taxes, and other factors are stifling the local business environment.
<p”It costs so much to operate a business here,” he said. “Out of 250 cities surveyed a few years ago, Santa Monica was ranked as the most expensive place to do business, largely due to excessive regulations.” He added that without an inviting, safe, and clean environment, there is little hope for improvement. “We have to do something quickly, and the pain is palpable. As voters, we must determine what changes are necessary,” Putnam asserted.
Crime has emerged as a central issue in the mayoral race, which includes incumbent Mayor Karen Bass and progressive Councilwoman Nithya Raman. Despite official statistics indicating a decline in specific violent crimes, Putnam argues that the overall crime situation has worsened in recent years. “There are all sorts of stats; it’s worse. Everyone is trying to sugarcoat it, but the data is out there,” he said. “While violent crime may be down nationally, petty crime is rampant.” He pointed out that crime affects all neighborhoods, including Santa Monica, where residents are increasingly feeling the impact of rising drug addiction and related criminal activities.
Putnam also reflected on the devastating wildfires that struck the Los Angeles area about a year and a half ago, particularly the Altadena and Pacific Palisades fires, which claimed 31 lives and destroyed over 6,000 structures, including Pratt’s home. The fires crept within a few miles of Putnam’s residence in Santa Monica. He noted that the community’s frustration with the response to these disasters, particularly regarding Bass’s preparedness, is a frequent topic of conversation among residents.
<p”People are feeling left out; they don’t feel like they’re being helped,” Putnam said. “Entire towns like Altadena and the Palisades were devastated. Many local businesses, including nail salons and restaurants, have been destroyed, leaving their owners homeless and without income. They aren’t receiving the support and attention they deserve; we need to come together to help those people.” He expressed concern that the community’s anger is palpable, but he also believes that Pratt has effectively highlighted these issues, encouraging voters to recognize that change is necessary.
Pratt is set to compete in the mayoral primary against Bass and Councilmember Nithya Raman on Tuesday night. The top two candidates will advance to the general election in November. However, if a candidate secures 50% of the vote, they will be declared the next mayor outright.
Putnam’s insights reflect a broader sentiment among Los Angeles residents who are increasingly dissatisfied with the current state of affairs, particularly regarding public safety and economic viability. As the mayoral race heats up, it remains to be seen how these issues will influence voter turnout and candidate support.
According to Fox News Digital, the upcoming election could serve as a pivotal moment for Los Angeles as voters seek meaningful change in response to their growing frustrations.