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 woman with blonde, shoulder length hair, smiles while seated in front of a black background wearing a black blazer

OC Board of Education member faces more penalty fees for failing to report millions in income

Marilyn “Mari” Barke will have to pay more than $100,000 in penalties, according to a judge's ruling last week.

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

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.

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.

More Stories

The Three Ways The California Recall Election Could Go

The recall election could end up with three very different results for the future of Gov. Gavin Newsom and of politics in California. Here’s how the scenarios could play out.
In Long Beach, Biden Caps Democratic Blitz To Turn Out Recall Voters

The President threw the full support of the White House behind California Governor Gavin Newsom in Long Beach on Monday night as the state’s recall election entered its final 24 hours.
If You’ve Waited To Cast Your Ballot, Read This

It's Election Day in California. Here's how to vote (for you procrastinators).
Democrats Have Turned Out In A Big Way To Support Newsom... So Far

The early voting results could be a good sign for the Governor as he faces a high-profile recall election.
If Newsom Is Recalled, What Could A Republican Governor Actually Accomplish?

With a Democratic majority in the State Assembly and Senate, any Republican governor would face stiff opposition.
Chinese-Speaking Supporters Of The Recall Of Gov. Newsom Are 'Micro-Targeting' Voters With Text Blast

A group of Chinese-speaking recall supporters said it’s sending anti-Newsom texts to about 200,000 voters with 25 of the most common Chinese surnames, such as Wang, Liu and Chen.
LA, Do You Want To Weigh In On Redistricting? Here's How

You still have a couple of opportunities to make your voice heard in this once-a-decade process.
After Ignoring Him For Decades, LA’s Black Political Establishment Is Uniting To Stop Larry Elder

The conservative and contrarian radio host is courting Black and Latino voters in his campaign to win the governorship in deep blue California.
Newsom and GOP Challenger Larry Elder Trade Criticisms At Labor Day Recall Campaign Events In Southern California

Both Newsom and his leading Republican challenger held rallies on friendly turf in Southern California.
Black Leaders Join Gov. Newsom To Rally Anti-Recall Voters In Crenshaw

The election is just over a week away.
Karen Bass For Mayor? She’s 'Seriously Considering' A Campaign To Lead Los Angeles

The congressmember has evolved on the issue thanks to a campaign by progressives to “#DraftBass.”
Are Young Voters The Key To Gavin Newsom Surviving The Recall?

Gov. Newsom and Democrats are hoping young Californians turn out in similar numbers to the November 2020 presidential election.

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Civics & Democracy