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 crowd of people looking at the same way at a concert are cheering.

Live Nation is supporting two California bills to lower prices. Can fans trust it?

Bruno Mars tickets running for $2,000 and ones for SZA costing $600 caught California lawmakers' attention. They're advancing two bills targeting the resale market.

Koreatown to host candidate forum for California’s next governor

From left, Betty Yee, Antonio Villaraigosa, Tony Thurmond, Tom Steyer, Katie Porter, Matt Mahan and Xavier Becerra attend a gubernatorial candidate forum on Latino and immigrant communities in Sacramento, Calif., Tuesday, April 14, 2026. (AP Photo/Godofredo A. Vásquez)

California Democrats can’t decide on a governor. Don’t count on Newsom or Pelosi for help

Seven people stand behind individual podiums on a stage in front of an audience sitting on chairs. The podiums have a design of a woman imposed over the state of California and text in Spanish that translated reads "Our voice '26."

Top 5 takeaways from Homeland Security budget hearings

Fesia Davenport — who got a $2M settlement from LA County — has her last official day as county CEO

A woman with medium-dark skin tone and short hair in tight curls wearing a blue knitted sweater speaks into a microphone from her desk with a sign that reads 'Fesia Davenport/ Chief Executive Officer."

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Huntington Beach loses legal challenge of California’s sanctuary law

It marks the second time that the conservative Orange County city has tried, and failed, to challenge the legality of SB 54.

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Abortion opponents coming before the Supreme Court on Tuesday

A faith-based center will challenge an investigation into whether it misled people to discourage abortions.
Santa Ana considers expanding its immigrant support fund. What families should know

The additional $150,000 in city dollars is earmarked to help immigrant households pay for housing and utilities.
The agriculture secretary says SNAP changes are coming. Here's what we know

Brooke Rollins has made a case for sweeping changes to food aid programs by claiming USDA has uncovered "massive fraud."
Young California Democrats are challenging veteran House members in safe blue seats, including in LA

The recent retirements of Nancy Pelosi and other longtime House Democrats have led to more calls for aging members to pass the torch.
DWP worker told staffer to run personal errands and buy Snoop Dogg tickets, Ethics Commission says

The L.A. City Ethics Commission alleges Renette Anderson misused her position for personal benefit.
Labor leader David Huerta pleads not guilty to obstructing ICE

Huerta faces a misdemeanor charge after showing up at an immigration raid in June.
House Democrats launch tracking system for immigration abuses

The new dashboard only includes incidents verified by reputable media outlets or referenced in litigation.
Judge tosses Comey, James cases after finding prosecutor unlawfully appointed

The judge's decision on the appointment of Lindsey Halligan marks a significant setback to efforts to go after the president's perceived political enemies.

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How Prop 50 is shaping 2026 and what it means for SoCal voters

The vote isn't certified yet, but a lot has happened since Election Day.
How Marjorie Taylor Greene went from a top Trump ally to choosing to resign

Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene was one of President Trump's most outspoken supporters. But she is planning to leave office following a growing rift with the president.
After break with Trump, Marjorie Taylor Greene will resign

Republican Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, an "America First" conservative who has clashed with President Donald Trump and her party, said Friday she would resign from Congress on Jan. 5, 2026.

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Civics & Democracy