Hochman wins Los Angeles race, signaling a shift away from progressive politics

Nathan Hochman unseated Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón in a closely watched election, ending Gascón’s tenure as the godfather of progressive prosecutors.

The result could signal a shift in voter sentiment towards stricter measures. law enforcement agencies politics as crime problems dominate Californian policy.

Hochman, a former federal prosecutor, has positioned himself as a “solid middle” candidate, distancing himself from both extremes. detention measures and what he called the “public safety failure” of Gascón’s four-year administration.

His campaign centered on repealing Gascon’s reforms, which he claimed had allowed violent crime rise unhindered throughout the district.

“Los Angeles County voters have spoken and said enough is enough about extreme pro-crime politicians D.A. Gascon; they look forward to a safer future,” Hochman said in a statement early Wednesday morning.

“As District Attorney, I look forward to representing all people, whether they voted for me or not, as their safety will be my responsibility.”

What led to Gascón’s defeat in California?

Gascón’s time as Los Angeles County District Attorney focused on criminal justice reform.

He was co-author of the Californian Proposition 472014 ballot measure reclassifying some low-level medicine And property crimes ranging from felonies to misdemeanors.

Sentences have been reduced for some non-violent crimes, often favoring rehabilitation over long prison terms. Gascón’s policies included ending the use of the death penalty, reclassifying some felonies as misdemeanors, and limiting charges to juveniles and low-level offenders.

However, his policies, especially regarding the reclassification of crimes, ran into difficulties. a little criticism amid growing concerns about crime across the state.

As of August 2024 vote By Los Angeles TimesHochman gained popularity among a broader base of voters who were increasingly wary of Gascón’s approach, with support from police unions and victim advocacy groups.

This time, 45 percent of those polled said they would vote for Hochman.

His desire to stop his opponent’s approach to a “social experiment” in policing the state has been even more successful, with 61.5 percent of the vote as of Wednesday morning, with plenty of time left before the votes are counted. completed.

Hochman’s campaign contributed to an increase in violent crime in Los Angeles, citing concerns from residents and law enforcement about Gascón’s policies, which he argued reduced the accountability of offenders.

He criticized Gascón’s handling of juvenile cases, arguing that a lack of consequences for young offenders contributed to a “disruption” of public safety.

“People want simple answers to complex problems.”

Voters across California appear to be turning against reform-minded district attorneys.

In 2022 San Francisco voters remembered District Attorney Chesa Boudinone of the first prosecutors elected on a progressive platform. The former public defender was removed from office after less than three years.

During this time, he eliminated cash bail and created the Wrongful Conviction Unit.

Despite the increase in violent crime, the number of murders has not increased, dominating the headlines and causing concern.

“People have been bombarded with advertising and years of fear-mongering and media sensationalism about ‘rising crime’ and ‘San Francisco is unlivable,’” Emily Lee, co-director of the San Francisco Rising Action Fund, a racial justice group. , said Guardian shortly after Boudin was recalled.

“People want simple answers to complex problems like homelessness and the drug overdose crisis, and they need something to latch on to.”

In this election, Hochman received endorsements from influential figures and organizations, including the Los Angeles police union, former District Attorney Jackie Lacey, a real estate developer and a former mayoral candidate. Rick Carusoand more than 70 current and former county officials.

Voters also approved a measure to partially repeal Proposition 47, which allows repeat offenders to face shoplifting charges and increases penalties for some drug crimes.

What’s next for Los Angeles under Hochman?

One of the key policy decisions that has received widespread publicity in recent weeks is potential pardon for Menendez’s brotherWith.

After the release of the film by super producer Ryan Murphy Netflix row Monsters, Gascon spoke for the governor. Gavin Newsome pardon Erik and Lyle Menendez, two convicted murderers who killed their parents, Jose and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez, in their Beverly Hills home in 1989.

The success of the series showed that this was most likely done in self-defense after years of child abuse. Hochman’s victory could now complicate the brothers’ efforts to be released from nearby RJ Donovan Correctional Facility. San Diego.

During a debate last month, Hochman criticized Gascón’s “suspicious” timing of the case. As Hochman prepares to take office ahead of the Menendez brothers’ resentencing hearing on Dec. 11, which could delay them. closer to release from 1996 sentences“The new district attorney is expected to review the case thoroughly.”

“The era of Gascón politics is over,” Hochman said. “We need accountability to ensure a safer Los Angeles for everyone.”

This article includes reporting from the Associated Press.