California Voters Reject Progressive DA Policies Amid Public Safety Concerns

California voters have increasingly expressed dissatisfaction with the policies of "progressive" district attorneys, leading to significant political setbacks for figures like Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón and Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price. This shift reflects growing public concern over perceived leniency in criminal justice, particularly regarding violent offenses.

The sentiment was recently echoed by a social media user, "Soquel by the Creek," who stated, "Just curious if prosecutors are ever going to charge and prosecute the person who violently attacked my wife a few years ago. Police did their job. It's California's soft-on-crime Progressive D.A.s and judges who are the real problem." This personal account highlights the frustration felt by some citizens who believe the justice system is failing victims of violent crime.

Progressive prosecutors, who gained prominence in the last decade, often advocate for reforms aimed at reducing mass incarceration, addressing racial biases, and emphasizing rehabilitation over punitive measures. Policies have included declining to prosecute certain low-level offenses, limiting sentencing enhancements, and ending cash bail for misdemeanors and nonviolent felonies. For instance, George Gascón, upon taking office in Los Angeles, issued directives to stop seeking the death penalty and certain sentencing enhancements, and to divert some misdemeanor cases.

However, these reforms have faced considerable backlash, with critics arguing they contribute to a rise in crime and a decline in public safety. The Los Angeles Police Protective League, for example, criticized Gascón's policies, stating they "will do nothing but further victimize Los Angeles residents." Former Los Angeles DA Steve Cooley also argued that Gascón's policies would "empower criminals."

The recent 2024 elections saw a significant repudiation of these progressive approaches. Both Gascón and Price lost their re-election bids, and Price faced a recall effort. Voters also overwhelmingly approved Proposition 36, a "tough-on-crime" measure that stiffened penalties for certain drug and theft crimes. This indicates a clear shift in public opinion towards a more traditional, accountability-focused approach to criminal justice.

While district attorneys possess broad discretion in charging and prosecuting cases, including the ability to dismiss charges or pursue alternative sentencing, this discretion is typically applied more cautiously in violent felony cases. Policies from offices like the Sacramento County District Attorney outline procedures for prosecuting serious crimes, including homicides and cases under the "Three Strikes Law," with specific approval processes for dismissing enhancements or reducing charges. The ongoing debate centers on how this discretion is exercised, particularly when victims perceive a lack of accountability for violent acts.