Civics & Democracy

LAist’s coverage of civic life and citizen issues in Southern California. We cover elections, examine who gets listened to and why, and provide a guide for anyone who wants to more fully participate in civic life.

Trump imposes 50% tariffs on Canadian goods

President Donald Trump declared that Canada has unfairly discriminated against American autos, alcohol and dairy products.

Gavin Newsom’s return-to-office rules are stricter than many states, including Texas

A large neoclassical style building with a black dome and columned pediment at dawn.

Deadline looms to join LA County’s inaugural Ethics Commission. Here's how to apply

A large building with an entrance sign that reads "Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration."

Crenshaw Chamber of Commerce wants small business owners to know about a new forgivable loan program

People walk down a sidewalk past a building with a mural of Nipsey Hussle and text written over his face that reads "Crenshaw."

Lawyers are teaching immigrants at Adelanto how to challenge their own detentions

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Trump keeps sabotaging legislation over a voting bill. Here's what's in it

President Donald Trump blew up what could have been a win for his party to force lawmakers to pass an elections overhaul bill.
OC grand jury calls for allowing elected officials to be ousted for misconduct

Grand jurors cited LAist’s unearthing of county HR investigations that found harassment, retaliation and workplace violence violations by two top county elected officials.
Ex-OC state parks chief accused of secretly filming male lifeguards in locker room

The former superintendent, Kevin Pearsall retired last year shortly after officials executed search warrants in the case against him.

Listen 0:40
Drones will be used to crack down on illegal fireworks this Fourth of July

Police departments around SoCal are starting to embrace new technologies this Fourth of July that cracks down on illegal firework use.
Half-cent sales tax to fund LA city fire department heads to the Nov ballot

If approved by voters, the measure would raise $345 million in its first year and it would remain in effect until it is repealed by voters.
California leaders yet to reach deal to keep billionaire tax off the ballot. Time is running out

Ahead of a Thursday deadline, California Democrats are striking deals with interest groups to kick controversial measures off the November ballot.
In symbolic vote, Congress directs Trump to remove forces from Iran war

The measure to remove U.S. armed forces from hostilities with Iran does not require the president's signature, nor does it carry the force of law.
California may force the release of 911 calls at immigration detention centers

Experts say human rights violations have gone unchecked at the facilities. If passed, the new law could hand the state and the public a powerful new oversight tool.
The Justice Department is linking public safety money to immigration enforcement

The Justice Department is offering grants to cities and police departments across the country, but recipients must cooperate with federal immigration enforcement.

Listen 3:58
LA man's case highlights gaps in care and oversight at DHS detention centers

Federal officers shot Ricardo Parias eight months ago during an ICE operation to detain him. His lawyer says he is still in pain, highlighting gaps in DHS oversight and care.

Listen 4:55
Californians love mail-in voting. That may have to change come November

Voters could see a significant difference in how ballots are handled and counted by the next election.
This lawmaker’s proposal could make California ‘the most secretive state in the country’

One good governance advocate calls it a “virtual horror show of governmental non-transparency.”

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Civics & Democracy