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.

Trump asks Supreme Court to lift block on USPS plan to restrict mail voting

The Trump administration has asked the Supreme Court to lift a temporary block on the USPS plan for Trump's attempt to restrict mail-in voting for the midterm election.

California kills bill regulating Flock cameras even as public rage grows

A person wearing sunglasses and a hat holds signage depicting, and text written on it reading, a Flock Camera with an eyeball.

What LAPD requires during stops — and where its gang unit fell short

Three men sit behind a long table. The man in the middle is wearing a black police uniform, the other men are wearing dark suits. An American flag and the flag of California are behind them.

Bass, Raman to lay out environmental plans for LA. Here's how to watch and listen

Aerial view of Los Angeles River's concrete channel running beside rail lines, with downtown skyline in the background.

Democratic socialists endorse Raman in LA mayoral contest

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

More Stories

California’s population shrank in Trump’s first immigration crackdown. It could happen again

Stricter immigration policies under President Trump could reduce migration to California, leading to economic losses and fewer electoral college votes.
Supreme Court limits nationwide injunctions in birthright citizenship order

The decision issues some limits on the power of federal judges to universally block President Trump's executive order on birthright citizenship, asking lower courts to reconsider their rulings.

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You have the right to film ICE detentions. Here’s how to do it effectively

Video footage can be used to keep government employees accountable.

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Want residents, not politicians, to find answers to LA’s thorniest problems? Try a civic assembly

They’ve been used in cities across Europe. Some groups are now trying to make them happen in L.A.
Trump’s Department of Justice sues Orange County for noncitizen voting records

The county says it’s willing to share the records under a strict confidentiality agreement.
Federal judge orders Trump officials to be deposed after national troops deployment

U.S. District Judge Charles Breyer will allow California to question key Trump administration officials and seek details on how national troops have been used since their deployment earlier this month.
Fourth of July changes: why some cities are skipping the fireworks and festivities this year

The reasons are varied, ranging from fire dangers to a lack of funding, environmental concerns — and fears of ICE sweeps.
Congress is fighting over this tax deduction. Here’s how it affects Californians

The House wants to raise the SALT deduction cap, which would help wealthy Californians pay less in federal taxes. The Senate wants to keep it where it is.
Newsom agrees to ease budget cuts as California seeks more time to fix growing deficit

The budget deal between Gov. Gavin Newsom and the Legislature forgoes or delays many of Newsom’s proposed cuts, but the deficit is only likely to grow.
Black community leaders respond to immigration enforcement in LA: 'This is our fight, too'

Several Black-led groups shared direct calls to action and suggested ways people can get involved, including supporting protests and mutual aid.
Orange County approves $10.8B budget — but there's one giant question mark

The county is facing at least $400 million in liability claims related to the Airport Fire, which was accidentally started by public crews.
Sacramento police release search warrant in California senator’s DUI investigation

CalMatters obtained the search warrant from Sen. Sabrina Cervantes’ DUI investigation. Here’s what it says.

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Civics & Democracy