LAist is part of Southern California Public Radio (SCPR), a member-supported public media network. Hear our news on-air at our partner site:
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti has withdrawn his support for incumbent L.A. County District Attorney Jackie Lacey and announced his endorsement of challenger George Gascón.
“[Gascón] knows how to promote public safety through partnerships with and beyond law enforcement,” Garcetti said in a statement. “[He] will help our county shift the burden from the criminal justice system and jails toward diversion, intervention, and re-entry programs that save money and save lives.”
Gascón formerly served as the District Attorney of San Francisco, and has also won endorsements from Kamala Harris, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, and Black Lives Matter co-founder Patrisse Cullors.
"I am honored to have the support of Mayor Garcetti, and if I'm fortunate to have the support of the voters, I'm excited to roll up my sleeves and work together once again to enhance the safety and livability of our communities," he said in response to Garcdetti’s endorsement.
Last week, City Councilman Herb Wesson rescinded his longstanding endorsement of Lacey, but stopped short of endorsing Gascón.
Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas appeared Monday with Gascón on Instagram Live to announce his support.
L.A. County voters will choose the next D.A. on Nov. 3. The KPCC/LAist guide to the election, including the D.A. race, can be found on our Voter Game Plan.