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LA City Attorney Feldstein Soto fights to keep her seat amid fierce competition

History-making incumbent or fresh reform? The race for LA's top legal role pits experience against bold new visions for justice and accountability.

The image shows a woman standing at a podium in front of a fire truck, surrounded by a group of...
The image shows a woman standing at a podium in front of a fire truck, surrounded by a group of people wearing masks. On the podium there are mics with stands and papers, and in the background there is a wall with lights. The woman is identified as the City of Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot, and she is speaking at a press conference.

LA City Attorney Feldstein Soto fights to keep her seat amid fierce competition

Los Angeles City Attorney Hydee Feldstein Soto made history in 2022 as the first woman to hold the role. Now, she faces a tough re-election challenge from three candidates with legal and advocacy backgrounds. The race centres on her record, including claims of improved City Hall relations and criticism over rising legal costs.

Feldstein Soto, based in the Pico/Fairfax area, took office after campaigning on stricter oversight of no-bid contracts. During her term, she focused on public safety, service delivery, and government transparency. Opponents, however, argue her leadership has led to mismanagement and higher legal payouts from the city attorney’s office.

Among the challengers is Aida Ashouri, a self-employed lawyer and activist. She has spent years advocating for renters, immigrants, and low-wage workers. Her experience includes roles with Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles and Public Counsel, where she tackled issues affecting marginalised communities. Marissa Roy, another candidate, currently serves as a deputy attorney general. She pledges to reshape the city attorney’s office into a public interest law firm. Her campaign emphasises greater accountability and community-focused legal work. John McKinney, a deputy district attorney, brings extensive courtroom experience to the race. He has prosecuted over 100 jury trials, including 40 murder cases. His background in criminal justice sets him apart from the other contenders. Before her election, Feldstein Soto served on the P.I.C.O. Neighborhood Council. She has repeatedly highlighted her efforts to strengthen ties between her office and other city departments. Yet, critics question whether her approach has delivered tangible benefits for residents.

The election will determine whether Feldstein Soto retains her position or if voters opt for a new direction. Each candidate offers a different vision for the office, from reforming contracts to expanding public interest work. The outcome will shape how legal services are managed in Los Angeles for the coming years.

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