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.

The sun sets behind power lines near homes during a heat wave in Los Angeles, California

LAist is moderating as Bass, Raman lay out their environmental plans. Here's how to watch

L.A.'s mayoral candidates will share their longer-term vision for a cleaner and healthier Los Angeles.

Democratic socialists endorse Raman in LA mayoral contest

Woman in red blazer stands at podium that says "NITHYA For Mayor: A City THAT WORKS"

CA legislature passes bill on addictive social media for younger kids. It has Long Beach origins

California Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal, a man with light skin tone, wearing a light gray suit, speaks outside in front of a set of microphones from news stations.

CA lawmakers pass new safety rules for smoke-damaged homes. Will Gov. Newsom sign them into law?

Listen 0:43

A smoke remediation van is parked on a residential street in Pasadena, a few blocks away from where homes burned down in the Eaton Fire.

Wildfire liability bill dies without a vote on final day of session

A row of electrical towers are pictured against the background of a an orange and grey sky, with smoke from a nearby fire.

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US immigrant population declines for first time in half a century, research shows

The immigrant population in the U.S. declined after President Donald Trump took office and launched an aggressive deportation campaign, Pew research shows.
Did Santa Ana greenlight a drone program? City leaders say no, but their policy says yes

City leaders approved military equipment policy that allows the Police Department to buy military equipment, including drones.
Ousted LAFD Chief Kristin Crowley files claim saying she was defamed and thrown under the bus by Bass after January fires

Crowley filed the claim Wednesday alleging she was defamed and retaliated against after speaking up about the department's operating budget.
Immigration enforcement used for political intimidation, officials and experts warn

Recent federal escalations recall chilling L.A. immigration history.
Why many California Democrats are feeling angst over Newsom's redistricting

California voters backed independent redistricting for congressional seats. Giving it up to counter President Trump creates a moral conflict, even for Democrats.
How long can Trump's DC takeover last? Here's what to know

President Donald Trump needs Congress' permission to use D.C.'s police for over 30 days, but there are no such limits on its National Guard. Experts spoke to NPR about how the takeover could end.

Listen 2:26
Republicans sue to block Newsom’s gerrymandering redistricting agenda

California Democrats used a common legislative tactic called “gut and amend” to rush legislation for a special election on new election maps.
Gavin Newsom wants an election in a hurry on his gerrymander. Here’s what has to happen

California counties are scrambling to prepare for Gov. Gavin Newsom's special election on redrawing congressional districts for the 2026 midterm. The effort will cost tens of millions of dollars.
Public funding for elections? The idea is back in California

The California Fair Elections Act would lift the ban on public financing of campaigns in the state, a potential game changer for elections.
Trump wants to stop states from voting by mail and using voting machines

But legal experts say he lacks the constitutional authority to do so.

Listen 2:25
Santa Ana Police Department wants $250,000 for drones

A Santa Ana police commander told the public the drones will not be used for surveillance.
Trump's DC 'crisis' enters 2nd week with more soldiers — and no exit strategy

Leaders in Washington, D.C., say they're striving to maintain calm as growing numbers of National Guard soldiers deploy to the city.

Listen 3:24

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Civics & Democracy