LOS ANGELES (AP) — In a surprising turn of events, Ysabel Jurado, a tenant rights attorney and Los Angeles City Council candidate, has taken the lead in the race for the 14th District. Jurado, who operated on a grassroots campaign without the support of big-money backers or glossy campaign mailers, deployed a powerful canvassing operation that covered 85,000 doors across the district. The strategy seems to be paying off, as Jurado now finds herself in first place and likely headed to a runoff.
Jurado’s campaign focused on supporting renters, fighting gentrification, and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities. She emphasized the importance of connecting with voters one-on-one, rather than through traditional campaign methods like mailers. Despite facing numerous challenges, Jurado’s lean operation has gained momentum and is yielding positive results.
The latest election results show Jurado leading with 24.5% of the vote, surpassing Councilmember Kevin de León by a slim margin of 318 ballots. Assemblymember Miguel Santiago trails behind De León in third place. However, with approximately 126,000 ballots still to be processed, the final outcome remains uncertain.
If Jurado ultimately secures a place in the runoff, voters in the 14th District will face a clear choice on several key issues. De León, seeking a second term, has supported measures such as hiring more police officers and implementing restrictions on homeless encampments. In contrast, Jurado opposes these policies and advocates for reallocating funds to social services. The candidates’ divergent positions on housing, law enforcement, and homelessness will undoubtedly shape the outcome of the runoff election.
Aside from their policy differences, De León carries the baggage of a 2022 scandal involving leaked racist remarks which led to the resignations of prominent council members. Despite repeatedly apologizing for his remarks and refusing to step down, De León’s voter support has dwindled. Less than a quarter of voters have opted to keep him in office, according to the current results.
Jurado’s campaign not only represents a bid for progressive representation on the council but also the chance to make history as the first Filipino American to serve in that role. The district itself is predominantly Latino but also has significant Asian and white populations.
While Jurado’s victory in the primary signifies a strong position for her campaign, political consultant Brian VanRiper cautions that the district has a history of forgiving incumbents with major political baggage. He refers to the 2015 reelection of Councilmember Jose Huizar, who was later charged in a corruption case and sentenced to prison. Nonetheless, Jurado’s supporters believe that her integrity and commitment to change will resonate with voters and bring a much-needed transformation to City Hall.
As the race moves forward, Jurado has garnered endorsements from various politicians and community groups aligned with the progressive movement. Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez, City Controller Kenneth Mejia, and former mayoral candidate Gina Viola have all shown their support. Additionally, volunteers from organizations like the Democratic Socialists of America-Los Angeles, Ground Game LA, and Boyle Heights Vota have actively campaigned for Jurado.
The looming runoff election presents an opportunity for voters to shape the direction of the 14th District and make their voices heard. With both Jurado and De León eager to highlight their policy differences and track records, voters will need to carefully consider the future trajectory of their community as they cast their ballots.