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.

A small drone is set on a table in the foreground in front of a row of nameplates and people talking amongst themselves out of focus in the background.

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

A red fire engine is parked in a street intersection. A firehouse attached to the engine is connected to a fire hydrant on the sidewalk. A firefighter stands beside the hydrant on the sidewalk.

California leaders yet to reach deal to keep billionaire tax off the ballot. Time is running out

People inside a large theater stand, cheering, while holding signs that read, "Billionaire Tax Niw."

In symbolic vote, Congress directs Trump to remove forces from Iran war

California may force the release of 911 calls at immigration detention centers

People walk outside a building signage that reads "GEO. Adelanto ICE Processing Center." A gated fence is out of focus in the foreground.

More Stories

Who will control the US House? Uncalled races in Southern California play a big role

George Whitesides victory over Republican incumbent Mike Garcia in District 27 was a positive in a tough year for Democrats. With Republicans winning the White House and Senate, here's a running list of races that are still outstanding.
Kevin de León concedes District 14 race to Ysabel Jurado

A win for Jurado adds another progressive to the L.A. City Council.
4 SoCal women share how they’re feeling after Trump's victory over Harris

We spoke with women across the political spectrum. Here’s how they described the moment they found out about former president Donald Trump’s win.
What will happen to the beloved WWII hangar in Tustin after its 'twin' burned down?

Any potential future use for the hangar — maintaining it or even demolishing it — will require significant funds.
Here’s what a second Trump presidency could mean for Los Angeles

L.A. politicians tried to resist President-elect Donald Trump’s policies during his last term. What can they do to fight this time?
Newsom calls special session to ‘Trump-proof’ California

Newsom wants the new Legislature to ‘protect’ California from Donald Trump on civil rights, reproductive freedom, climate action, and immigrant families. The session will start Dec. 2.
Trump won. Here are 3 Biden priorities under scrutiny

Trump has promised to cut taxes and government regulations, slap tariffs on imports and order large deportations of immigrants. Here's how that could impact the economy.
Here's what Trump 2.0 means for the economy, from tariffs to mass deportations

Trump has promised to cut taxes and government regulations, slap tariffs on imports and order large deportations of immigrants. Here's how that could impact the economy.

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HB's Measure U would give voters more say over housing — and it's heading to victory

Huntington Beach may be back on a collision course with Sacramento.
Southern California races for several seats in Congress still too close to call

Ballots are still being counted, but Republican incumbents have early leads in the vote count.
How has the Electoral College survived, despite being perennially unpopular?

Despite its substantial-sounding name, the Electoral College isn’t a permanent body: It’s more of a process. For decades, a majority of Americans have wanted it to be changed.
Voters support school funding measures, union-backed candidates lead LAUSD board races

With a majority of votes counted in L.A. County, candidates in two of the three open seats on the LAUSD school board appear to have solid leads.

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Civics & Democracy