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: Charter Amendment ER

This package of reforms is part of an effort to restore faith in LA City Hall.
Live results: LA City Charter Amendment HH

This measure is a hodgepodge of charter amendments meant to clarify rules that have caused confusion — or to set new rules to address problems.
Live results: LAUSD School Board District 1

Sherlett Hendy Newbill and Kahllid A. Al-Alim vie for an open seat on L.A. Unified's school board.
Live results: LA City Council District 2

Current Councilmember Paul Krekorian can’t run again because of term limits. Candidates Jillian Burgos and Adrin Nazarian are facing off for the seat.
Live results: LA City Council District 10

If you live in the city of L.A., your city council member is probably the most powerful and important elected office you can vote for.
Live results US President

The vote so far.
Live results: Los Angeles District Attorney

It's incumbent George Gascón vs. Nathan Hochman.
What voters should know when heading to the polls

There are certain rules around polling centers and drop off ballot boxes.
Over 30% of registered voters in LA and Orange counties have already returned their ballot

The majority have favored mail in voting, elections officials report.
The race for the Senate: Here are the top races to watch

Republicans are favored to take control of the chamber thanks to a 2024 map of races that tilts disproportionately in the GOP’s favor. Here are the races to watch.
10 key demographic groups that could decide the presidential election

From voters young and older to the potentially very wide gender gap, here's what to watch for as the election results come in.
Meet the conservative women who are keeping their votes for Kamala Harris a secret

Polls show a historic gender gap in the 2024 election. Democrats are reminding conservative women: votes are a secret and they can vote for who they want, including Vice President Harris.

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Civics & Democracy