Several former reality television personalities are campaigning for office in 2026. Luke Gulbranson has launched a Democratic bid for Congress in Minnesota, while Spencer Pratt and Farrah Abraham have also drawn attention with their own political plans.
Luke Gulbranson, a former cast member of Bravo’s “Summer House” and its spinoff “Winter House,” is running as a Democrat for Congress in Minnesota’s 8th District, challenging Republican Rep. Pete Stauber.
Gulbranson told NPR he decided to run after watching President Donald Trump speak with reporters at home one morning, describing it as a sudden realization that pushed him into the race.
A first-time candidate, Gulbranson has argued that his reality TV experience prepared him for political scrutiny, saying it helped him develop “thick skin.” He has also said he is focused on pocketbook issues in northern Minnesota, including affordability and access to health care. NPR reported that Gulbranson moved back to Eveleth, Minnesota after his television run, where he runs a maple syrup business and coaches hockey.
Gulbranson is not the only reality TV figure to wade into politics this cycle. NPR reported that Farrah Abraham, previously known for MTV’s “Teen Mom,” has announced she is running for Austin City Council, though NPR said she had not filed the paperwork required to officially enter the race.
In Los Angeles, Spencer Pratt — who rose to fame on MTV’s “The Hills” — is running for mayor. Local election records show Pratt filed a declaration of intention to run for mayor, and the Los Angeles Times has reported he qualified for the ballot in the 2026 city election.
