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

Live results in 6 key California House races that could swing power in Congress

Four of these heated races are in Southern California and they're among the most expensive in the nation.
Here's a look at the people who hit the polls in SoCal on Tuesday

From the presidential race and possibility of the first U.S. woman president, to more down ballot issues, voters had a lot on their minds as they lined up to vote.
NPR's final pre-election poll reiterates how tight this race is

Among registered voters, the NPR poll was a dead heat, 49% - 49%.
Stressed at work over the election? 3 ways to minimize political tension on the job

Political disagreements have sent workplace incivility to an all-time high this year, costing employers some $2 billion per day in lost productivity. Here’s how to cut down on watercooler fights over today’s election — and its aftermath.
This Orange County House race is the most expensive in the US

California's 45th Congressional district, which includes Orange County’s Little Saigon, has attracted more than $46 million in spending.
Live results: US Representatives

Both parties are looking to flip seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Here's how LAist and NPR will report the 2024 election results

We rely on results and race calls from The Associated Press for presidential races, other federal elections and statewide contests.
4 steps to help you avoid sharing election misinformation

As we’re waiting to learn the final results, it can be easy to be duped by false or misleading information. Here are four tips to help you avoid spreading election related misinformation.
A wild election is coming to a close — and no one is sure how it will end

From candidate swaps to assassination attempts, the final months of the campaign has been a whirlwind. Here's why the outcome is so consequential.
Live results: Los Angeles, Orange County water agencies

Water officials today are making decisions that will affect water availability, water rates, and long-term drought resilience for decades to come.
Understanding why declaring winners in California may take a minute

Taking our sweet time is a feature, not a bug, of our election system.
Live results: California State Senate, LA and Orange counties

A look at live results in the State Senate races on the Nov. 5 ballot across L.A. and Orange counties.

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Civics & Democracy