Spencer Pratt’s Obama Comparison Sparks Laughter on 'The View': Hosts Call His Claim 'Absurd'

Spencer Pratt, a reality TV personality running for Los Angeles mayor, recently drew laughter—and sharp criticism—from the hosts of The View after comparing himself to former President Barack Obama.

During an appearance on NBC Los Angeles, Pratt argued that his lack of political experience was no barrier to high office, citing two community awards he claimed Obama never received. He also pointed to Obama’s rise from senator to two-term president as evidence that experience wasn’t a prerequisite for success.

“I feel like him and I have the same experience,” Pratt said.

The hosts of The View were quick to dismantle his argument.

‘You Don’t Have the Same Experience’: Sunny Hostin’s Rebuttal

Sunny Hostin, a co-host and attorney, fired back with a blunt assessment of Pratt’s qualifications:

“Spencer Pratt, sir, you don’t have the same experience. You don’t have a law degree from Harvard Law School. You were not a senator. And there are baby steps you can take. Like, why not run for city council, and learn about the city budget? And then maybe become president of City Council, and then maybe become the mayor.”

Fresh Faces vs. Qualifications: Mixed Reactions on ‘The View’

While Sara Haines and Alyssa Farah Griffin acknowledged potential benefits in bringing “fresh new blood” to politics, they agreed Pratt’s comparison to Obama was misguided. Farah Griffin called the claim “absurd,” while Hostin doubled down:

“He’s absurd! He’s an absurdity!”

Moderator Whoopi Goldberg weighed in, stating that celebrities can enter politics—but only if they’re genuinely prepared for the role.

“If they know what they’re doing, I welcome anybody who knows how to do this. But if you’re going to be like the guy who’s already in charge, thank you, no. Thank you, no. I’m not happy with what’s going on.”

Hostin reinforced the point, emphasizing that job qualifications—not messaging—should drive political candidacy:

“He is not qualified for it, and we see what happens when people are not qualified for their jobs.”

‘The View’ Weighs In on Celebrity Politics

The segment highlighted the ongoing debate over whether celebrity status alone qualifies someone for public office. While Goldberg acknowledged that actors and reality stars can succeed in politics, she stressed the importance of competence over fame.

The View airs weekdays at 11 a.m. ET on ABC.