Spencer Pratt Says Death Threats Led Him to Become a Republican

Spencer Pratt says concerns about his safety pushed him toward the Republican Party.

In an interview Thursday on CNN anchor Elex Michaelson’s show “The Issue Is,” the former “The Hills” star said he received many death threats during his time as a reality TV personality. Pratt said his security team advised him and his wife, Heidi Pratt, to buy firearms for protection in Los Angeles.

Pratt said support for gun ownership and concealed carry permits, often backed by Republicans, influenced his political views. He said that issue led him to identify with the Republican Party.

Pratt is currently running for mayor of Los Angeles against incumbent Karen Bass, City Council member Nithya Raman and other candidates. The election is scheduled for June 2.