George Gascón vs. Nathan Hochman: The Battle for Los Angeles County District Attorney

Introduction

On June 7, 2022, voters in Los Angeles County will head to the polls to elect a new District Attorney. The race has attracted two strong candidates: incumbent George Gascón and challenger Nathan Hochman.

George Gascón

Background and Experience

George Gascón is a former San Francisco District Attorney and Los Angeles Police Commissioner. He was elected as Los Angeles County District Attorney in 2020, becoming the first progressive prosecutor to hold the office.

Policies and Approach

Gascón has implemented a number of progressive reforms since taking office, including ending cash bail, reducing the number of people sent to jail, and prioritizing rehabilitation over punishment.

Nathan Hochman

Background and Experience

Nathan Hochman is a former federal prosecutor and Deputy District Attorney for Los Angeles County. He is running on a platform of restoring law and order to the county.

Policies and Approach

Hochman has pledged to crack down on crime, increase sentences for violent offenders, and end Gascón's progressive reforms.

The Race

The race between Gascón and Hochman is expected to be close. Gascón has the advantage of incumbency, but Hochman has the backing of many law enforcement organizations and has raised more money than Gascón.

The outcome of the race will have a significant impact on the criminal justice system in Los Angeles County. A Gascón victory would continue the county's shift towards progressive prosecution, while a Hochman victory would represent a return to a more traditional approach to law enforcement.

Conclusion

The race for Los Angeles County District Attorney is a high-stakes election that will have a major impact on the county's criminal justice system. Voters will have to decide whether they want to continue the progressive reforms of George Gascón or return to a more traditional approach to law enforcement under Nathan Hochman.