LA District Attorney

TLDR: WHO SHOULD I CHOOSE FOR DISTRICT ATTORNEY?

If you prioritize progressive reforms focused on reducing incarceration and eliminating the death penalty, and a moderate approach to mitigating the impacts of the 1990s tough-on-crime era, VOTE GEORGE GASCÓN.

If you prioritize a centrist approach that emphasizes public safety, tougher prosecution, and accountability, pushing back against Gascón's more lenient policies, with a candidate backed by MAGA money​, VOTE NATHAN HOCHMAN.

George Gascón vs. Nathan Hochman

George Gascón

Gascón is a progressive Democrat, known for his criminal justice reform efforts. His policies focus on reducing incarceration rates, eliminating the death penalty, and decreasing racial disparities within the legal system. He has strong support from reform advocates and progressive groups but has been heavily criticized by law enforcement and some victims' rights groups for being too lenient on crime​. The reality is that he came into an office that is dealing with the aftereffects of the 1990s tough-on-crime era, where there was little effort to mitigate the root causes of crime. Many of the primary candidates that were running against him are now voting for him.

Key Policies:

  • End to the Death Penalty: Gascón is a staunch opponent of capital punishment, a stance that has caused tension in high-profile cases.

  • Reforming Bail: He supports eliminating cash bail to reduce pretrial detention for those unable to afford bail.

  • Reducing Over-Incarceration: Focuses on diversion programs for nonviolent offenders, particularly those affected by mental illness or substance abuse, which some view as a soft approach​

Background:

Gascón has survived two recall attempts due to rising crime rates and backlash against his progressive reforms. Critics argue that his policies have contributed to a perceived increase in crime, though he maintains that his reforms are working to address systemic inequalities.

NATHAN HOCHMAN

Hochman identifies as a centrist or moderate Republican, positioning himself as an alternative to Gascón’s progressive policies. His platform focuses on public safety, protecting victims, and reducing violent crime. He’s backed by MAGA money.

Key Policies:

  • Focus on Public Safety: Hochman is committed to tougher prosecution of violent crimes and opposes many of Gascón’s reform efforts, arguing that they contribute to a public safety crisis.

  • Restore Accountability: He emphasizes accountability for both offenders and the DA’s office, criticizing Gascón for removing enhancements and minimizing sentences for serious crimes​.

  • Pro-Law Enforcement: Hochman has strong support from law enforcement groups and focuses on rebuilding trust between the DA’s office and law enforcement​.

Background:

Hochman is a former Assistant U.S. Attorney General and has served as President of the Los Angeles City Ethics Commission. His legal career includes extensive work in federal prosecution and ethics oversight.