Gascon Continues to Trail Challenger With Election Day Almost Here

The race for Los Angeles County District Attorney is heating up as Election Day approaches.

Incumbent George Gascón is facing a challenge from former prosecutor John Hatami. The two candidates have very different approaches to criminal justice, and the outcome of the election could have a major impact on the future of Los Angeles County.

Gascón, a former San Francisco district attorney, was elected in 2020 on a platform of progressive criminal justice reform. He has since implemented a number of policies aimed at reducing mass incarceration and racial disparities in the criminal justice system.

Hatami, a former prosecutor in the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office, is running on a platform of law and order. He has criticized Gascón's policies, arguing that they have led to an increase in crime.

The race between Gascón and Hatami is expected to be close. A recent poll showed Gascón leading by just 5 points, within the margin of error.

Here is a look at some of the key issues in the race:

- Criminal justice reform

Gascón has made criminal justice reform a centerpiece of his administration. He has implemented a number of policies aimed at reducing mass incarceration and racial disparities in the criminal justice system. These policies include reducing cash bail, ending the use of the death penalty, and creating a new diversion program for low-level offenders.

Hatami has criticized Gascón's criminal justice reforms, arguing that they have led to an increase in crime. He has pledged to reverse these policies if elected.

Homelessness

Homelessness is a major issue in Los Angeles County. Gascón has created a new unit within the District Attorney's Office to focus on prosecuting crimes related to homelessness. He has also pledged to work with other county agencies to address the root causes of homelessness.

Hatami has said that he would take a more aggressive approach to homelessness. He has pledged to crack down on homeless encampments and to prosecute people who commit crimes in homeless encampments.

Public safety

Public safety is a top concern for voters in Los Angeles County. Gascón has said that he is committed to keeping the county safe. He has pledged to increase the number of prosecutors in the District Attorney's Office and to focus on prosecuting violent crime.

Hatami has criticized Gascón's record on public safety, arguing that he has not done enough to protect the county from crime. He has pledged to take a more aggressive approach to crime, including increasing the number of police officers on the streets.

Gascon Continues To Trail Challenger With Election Day Almost Here