California and Los Angeles County are cracking down on crime, with stiffer penalties now in place for certain offenses following the passage of Proposition 36. Former federal prosecutor Nathan Hochman was sworn in as L.A. County’s new district attorney, reversing some policies of his progressive predecessor George Gascón.
In a shift from the 2014 election, voters supported Prop. 36 overhauling key parts of Prop. 47, despite the latter’s previous widespread approval. Data shows that neighborhoods that initially backed Prop. 47 now support Prop. 36.
A Berkeley IGS Poll revealed shifts in voter demographics, with Republican support for Prop. 36 increasing and Democrats more divided. Hochman’s victory and the passage of Prop. 36 demonstrate a trend towards toughening crime laws. Despite this, advocates remain committed to aspects of criminal justice reform. Hochman’s win and messaging indicate a balance between reform and public safety concerns.
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