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.

Farmworkers in wide-brimmed hats bend over rows of leafy crops in a field, with vehicles and utility poles in the background.

For Central Valley farmworkers, a court order brought calm. Now it's on hold — and LA is watching

The order, issued after disruptive immigration raids in January 2025, placed new restrictions on immigration agents arresting people without warrants.

Data from 911 calls at ICE detention centers must be released under bill going to Newsom

A slightly blurry photo of two people wearing dark blue jump suits with text on the back that reads "Inmate" as they walk down a hallway.

A federal judge ordered fixes at Adelanto. Now a congresswoman wants the state to step in

A Latina speaks at microphones during a press conference, with others standing behind her and a sign reading 'Shut Down Adelanto' nearby.

Replay: Watch LA mayoral candidates talk environmental strategy

Two women in suit jackets hold mics and gesture as the address an audience.

The Trump administration still aims to make state citizenship lists ahead of midterms

More Stories

Congress Considers Codifying Same-Sex Marriage After Long Battle For Gay Rights

Same-sex marriage was once a deeply divisive issue. Now, polls show over 70% of Americans support same-sex marriage, and Congress is set to move forward with the Respect for Marriage Act.

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The 2022 Vote Count In SoCal Is Almost Over. When Do Electeds Take Office?

Newly elected officials will soon be going to work for you.
With Student Loan Relief Tied Up In Court, Biden Extends Repayments A Few Months

The president has extended the student loan repayment pause into 2023. Biden said he wants to give lawsuits against debt cancellation time to play out, and the Supreme Court time to weigh in.
Elections Are Over, So Why Are Ballot Drop Boxes Still Around?

Turns out it’s part of a long-term plan to boost voter turnout.
Rocío Rivas Declares Victory In LAUSD District 2 Board Race

"I am ready to bring my very best to all of our constituents," Rivas said. "You can count on me to serve our district with unwavering dedication.”
Kelly Gonez Declares Victory In LAUSD Board Election. But Marvin Rodriguez Hasn't Conceded

The District 6 incumbent believes she’s fended off a much-tougher-than-expected challenge from opponent Marvin Rodríguez — but he hasn’t conceded yet.
New Faces To Occupy Nearly Half The Seats On LA City Council

The council will now have six women — the most ever.
LA City Council In 2023: Your Guide To Who's Who (And What They Do)

New faces are in and longstanding members are gone. We help you understand who's who and what's next.
Speaker Pelosi Says She Will Step Down As Party Leader After Two Decades At The Top

Speaker Nancy Pelosi's announcement paves the way for a new generation of Democratic lawmakers to fill the leadership ranks.
Fight Over Health Care Minimum Wage Yields a Split Decision in Southern California

An expensive fight over health worker pay in two Southern California cities, Inglewood and Duarte, appears to have ended in a draw, with each side claiming a victory and a loss.
Karen Bass Gives First Remarks After Historic Win in LA Mayor's Race

During her speech, Bass said that Los Angeles "cannot settle for people dying on our streets" and that she'll declare a state of emergency on homelessness as soon as she enters office.
Orange County Election Officials Hope To Stave Off Potential Critics With Extra Transparency

National scrutiny of U.S. elections and some hotly contested Congressional races are making for a tense vote-counting period.

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Civics & Democracy