Your 2022 Election Guide

Understanding Your Ballot

With extensive ballots, voters often find themselves more informed about certain races than others. This is particularly relevant with high-profile contests for California governor and Los Angeles mayor. Yet, decisions on lesser-known races can equally impact the community.

L.A. Superior Court Judge

One tough decision involves selecting an L.A. Superior Court judge. This election includes 15 races, with 11 being highly competitive. But what do Superior Court judges oversee? According to information from the Judicial Branch of California, their responsibilities include handling:

• All civil cases (such as family law, probate, juvenile, and other civil matters)
• All criminal cases (including felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions like traffic tickets)
• Small claims cases and appeals of small claims cases
• Appeals of civil cases involving $35,000 or less
• Appeals of infraction and misdemeanor cases

Source: California Courts Self-Help Guide

Health Care

Health care remains a complex issue in L.A. County. A proposed half-cent sales tax aims to support local hospitals and clinics. Proponents argue it’s essential because of impending budget cuts over the next three years. However, critics express concerns about the tax’s potential negative impact on businesses and taxpayers.

L.A. County Sheriff

The L.A. County sheriff’s role holds significant importance and has been subject to various controversies. The current race features Robert Luna seeking re-election against seven challengers, including former sheriff Alex Villanueva. This contest highlights critical issues like jail fatalities, deputy morale, recruitment challenges, and the level of oversight within the department.

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