George Gascón, a progressive crusader who took office four years ago, lost to challenger Nathan Hochman, a former federal prosecutor who ran as an independent.

Summary

Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón lost his re-election bid to Nathan Hochman, a former federal prosecutor, according to AP projections.

Gascón, elected in 2020 on a reformist platform, faced backlash for policies like ending cash bail for nonviolent offenses and not prosecuting juveniles as adults. His tenure saw rising concerns over crime and homelessness, amplified by viral “smash-and-grab” robbery videos.

Hochman campaigned as a tougher alternative, pledging to restore “law and order.”

Gascón’s defeat follows a broader pushback against progressive prosecutors in California.