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 meeting of people sitting around tables facing a crowd of people sitting in chairs, with one person with long hair sitting in the foreground with a laptop facing away.

LA neighborhood councils: 3 things to know before attending a meeting

Want to get involved in your neighborhood? You don’t have to be a policy expert. Here’s how to find your neighborhood council, check meeting agendas and speak up at a meeting.

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

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

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.

More Stories

Be Patient: This Election Is Probably Going To Go On A While

Election Day is today, but expect this election to go on a while. Close races, rules changes, and a conspiratorial environment all may lead to delays.
Balance Of Power: Senate And House Election Results 2022 Live

View live results for the 2022 United States Senate and House elections. First polls close at 4 p.m. PT.
Election Day Cheat Sheet: How To Cast Your Ballot Successfully

Still need to vote? No worries. Our cheat sheet has you covered.
What We Know So Far About LA And OC Voter Turnout In The 2022 General Election

L.A. election officials have counted nearly 2.3 million ballots as of Friday evening and are down to their last 175,000. Turnout should land around 44%. In Orange County, the tallied votes add up to about 53.7% of registered voters.
The Bellwether Districts To Watch That Could Determine Control Of Congress

California is home to two of the key races that could indicate how big (or small) a GOP wave is coming on election night. We have them all.
Election Day Is Coming. Here's What To Think About Before Sharing News

Anyone who's online and shares information plays some role in shaping whether falsehoods gain traction. Here's some advice on how to share responsibly.
Canvasser Controversy Erupts In LA Congressional Race For District 34

L.A. Councilmember-elect Eunisses Hernandez says canvasser for U.S. Rep. Jimmy Gomez, running in District 34, made “anti-Asian” comment.
Long Beach Mayor

Suzie Price and Rex Richardson are running to be Long Beach’s next mayor. They’re both city council members, but that’s where the similarities end.
Why Aren't More Moms Running For Office? One Group Is Hoping To Change That

Only 5.3% of all state legislators and 7% of members of Congress are women with children under the age of 18, according to a report by a group dedicated to getting mothers elected to public office.
Who Will Replace Nury Martinez On LA's City Council? Remaining Members Eye April Special Election

If approved on second reading, the election would happen April 23, with a runoff set for June.
Prop 30: Following The Money On California's Proposed Income Tax For Electric Vehicles

Here are the key numbers to understand Proposition 30, the most confounding of the California ballot measures.
In LA Mayoral Race, A Fight For Asian American Voters

Karen Bass stresses her role as a uniter; Rick Caruso plays up his business success.

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Civics & Democracy