Jasmyne Cannick’s 2024 General Election Voter Guide

Jasmyne Cannick's voter guide

Introduction

Welcome to my 2024 General Election voter recommendations! As always, it’s important to Know Your Zip Code—because what happens locally matters just as much as those big national races. Whether it’s who’s running for city council, school board, or those all-important ballot measures, these decisions will directly impact our communities.

I tend to focus on where Black and Latino people live in Los Angeles County and low to no income people because our communities often face the most pressing issues—from housing and education to policing and economic opportunities. I’m always paying attention to how policies and candidates will impact our neighborhoods, making sure our voices are heard and our needs are prioritized. It’s about advocating for justice and equity where it’s most needed and ensuring that we’re not overlooked in the political process.

As someone who is deeply engaged in local politics, advocacy, and community issues, I’ve spent years researching and working for candidates, policies, and the impact they have on our neighborhoods. From staying involved in the latest developments to working directly on issues that affect everyday people, I’m committed to cutting through the noise and providing recommendations that reflect what’s truly in the best interest of our community. My experience with grassroots movements, public policy, and real-world outcomes makes me well-qualified to offer thoughtful, informed voter recommendations. 

I’m also the first person who tell you that none of these positions carry a term of “life.”  A person’s first term in office should show us that we made the right decision in sending them there.  If it doesn’t, move on to the next.  Stop re-electing people who aren’t doing a good job.

I’m just here to help you make informed choices that align with what’s best for all of us–not some of us. Let’s get into it!

Note: Candidates listed with an asterisk (*) I either worked for and or donated to their campaigns.  Why?  Because I put my talent and my money where my values are! Full disclosure: I am still trying to figure out where I land on Measure FF and Proposition 36.

Jasmyne signature

Los Angeles City Council

About the Job: Los Angeles City Council members are responsible for making decisions that shape the city’s future. They oversee everything from setting policies, passing local laws, and approving budgets to addressing community concerns and making sure city services run smoothly. Basically, they’re the ones who help keep LA functioning while representing the interests of their districts.

What I Look for in Candidates: When choosing who to vote for in City Council races, I’m looking for candidates who have a real plan to address the issues facing our neighborhoods, like housing affordability and public safety. It’s important they have a track record of actually engaging with the community, not just making promises during election season. I want to see leadership that’s proactive, transparent, and committed to the long-term well-being of the city—not just those seeking a political title. Real results and a genuine connection to the people they serve are what I’m after.

Term: 4 years

Council District 10

Council District 14

Los Angeles Unified School District,
Member of the Board of Education, District 1

About the Job: Board members of the Los Angeles Unified School District are responsible for guiding the education of hundreds of thousands of students. They set policies, approve budgets, and make critical decisions about school programs, teacher contracts, and resources. Their role is to ensure that LAUSD students receive the best education possible while balancing the needs of the schools, families, and the broader community.

What I Look for in Candidates: Let me start by saying, I don’t have kids.  But that doesn’t mean I don’t care about today’s students and the ones yet to be born. We all will have to interact with the products of our public school system.  So we need them to be able read, write, and perform simple math and logic without a phone or calculator.  When I’m picking LAUSD candidates, I’m looking for people who prioritize students above everything else. I want to see candidates who are committed to improving the quality of education, making sure schools have the resources they need, and addressing the challenges facing both students and teachers. It’s important they understand the diverse needs of our communities and have real solutions for making our schools better and safer. I’m also watching how they plan to work with parents and educators to ensure every student has a shot at success. It’s all about putting students first and delivering results.

Term: 4 years

Los Angeles Community College District, Member of the Board of Trustees

About the Job: Los Angeles Community College Board members are in charge of shaping the policies and priorities for the city’s community college system. They oversee budgets, set goals for academic programs, and ensure that students have access to quality education and resources. Their decisions impact everything from campus facilities to tuition costs, making them key players in helping students succeed and keeping the community colleges running smoothly.

What I Look for in Candidates: When choosing LACCD candidates, I’m looking for those who understand the importance of affordable, accessible education for all. I want candidates who have concrete plans to support students, improve campus resources, and make community colleges a pathway to opportunity. They should be focused on making sure every student, regardless of their background or age, can thrive and succeed. I’m also watching how they plan to address the needs of faculty and staff, ensuring the colleges remain strong and sustainable for future generations. It’s about equity, access, and making education work for everyone–regardless of age. I want candidates that also speak to adults who want the opportunity to go back to college now that things are changing.  Don’t leave the adults behind!

Term: 4 years

Member of the State Assembly

About the Job: California State Assemblymembers are responsible for creating and passing laws that impact the entire state. They represent their districts in Sacramento, working on legislation that covers everything from healthcare to education, housing, and public safety. They also help shape the state budget and make sure local voices are heard when big decisions are made. Essentially, they’re the ones in the room shaping California’s future while advocating for their communities.

What I Look for in Candidates: When I’m choosing who to vote for in the California State Assembly and State Senate races, I’m looking for candidates who aren’t afraid to tackle the big issues—whether it’s housing, reparations, public safety, healthcare, or climate change. I want to see leadership that’s bold, thoughtful, and focused on real solutions that can make a difference for everyday people. They should have a track record of standing up for their communities and be ready to fight for policies that promote equity and justice. It’s about finding candidates who aren’t just talking the talk, but who are ready to push California forward with action.

Term: 2 years

Isaac Bryan

Assembly District 55

Sade Elhawary

Assembly District 57

Assembly District 61

Mike Gipson

Assembly District 65

Member of the State Senate

About the Job: California State Senators are the ones who take the lead on shaping laws and policies that impact the whole state. They represent larger districts than Assemblymembers and work on crafting legislation, approving the state budget, and making sure the needs of their communities are reflected in state decisions. They also play a key role in confirming certain appointments. In short, they’re the voices in Sacramento ensuring that California runs smoothly while looking out for the bigger picture.

What I Look for in Candidates: When I’m choosing who to vote for in the California State Assembly and State Senate races, I’m looking for candidates who aren’t afraid to tackle the big issues—whether it’s housing, reparations, public safety, healthcare, or climate change. I want to see leadership that’s bold, thoughtful, and focused on real solutions that can make a difference for everyday people. They should have a track record of standing up for their communities and be ready to fight for policies that promote equity and justice. It’s about finding candidates who aren’t just talking the talk, but who are ready to push California forward with action.

Term: 4 years

Michelle Chambers

Senate District 35

United States Representative

About the Job: Members of the House of Representatives are the lawmakers who represent districts across the country in Washington, D.C. They introduce and vote on bills, shape the federal budget, and make decisions on national policies that affect everything from taxes to healthcare. They’re also responsible for representing the interests and concerns of their constituents back home, making sure local voices are heard at the national level. Essentially, they’re in the thick of it, helping to shape the direction of the country.

What I Look for in Candidates:  When it comes to choosing House of Representatives and U.S. Senate candidates, I’m looking for leaders who will show up and fight for the issues that matter most—whether that’s healthcare access, protecting voting rights, or tackling income inequality. I want to see candidates who aren’t just about talking points but have a real vision for how to move the country forward. They should be willing to stand up for their constituents, even when it’s tough, and be focused on passing policies that create meaningful change. I’m looking for action, integrity, and a commitment to justice.

Term: 2 years

Congressional District 37

Congressional District 43

Maxine Waters

Nanette Barragan-Diaz

Congressional District 44

Local Measures

A local measure is basically a proposal that voters in a city or county get to decide on directly. It could be about anything from taxes and public services to changes in how the government operates. Local measures give the community a say in shaping how things work in their own backyard, letting voters approve or reject changes that will impact their everyday lives. It’s democracy at a grassroots level.

What I Look For: When it comes to supporting local measures or state propositions, I’m looking for how they’ll actually impact our community. Is it going to improve housing, public services, or schools? Will it make life better for working families or just benefit special interests? I dig into the details to see who’s backing it and what the real consequences are—because sometimes things are dressed up in a nice package, but the impact isn’t always what it seems. I want to support measures that bring real, positive change, not just empty promises.

City of Los Angeles

DD

YES

Would establish an independent redistricting commission to prevent politicians from drawing their own district lines and choosing voters to boost their reelection chances.

HH

YES

Several minor tweaks to the City Charter, with key changes including granting the city attorney subpoena power in civil cases and allowing the city controller to audit contractor records on city spending

II

YES

Simple changes like allowing departments to sell food and merchandise, use electronic signatures, and create joint-use agreements with LAUSD to expand public recreational spaces.

ER

YES

Would strengthen the ethics commission by guaranteeing a minimum budget and requiring the City Council to act on commission recommendations within 180 days, limiting officials’ ability to block reforms.

LL

YES

Proposes a 14-member independent commission to redraw LAUSD Board districts, with no political involvement. Four members must be parents or guardians of LAUSD students, and undocumented immigrants can also serve.

US

YES

Allows expanded rent control and stops corporate landlords from gouging tenants.

Los Angeles County

District Attorney

About the Job: The District Attorney (DA) is the top prosecutor for a county, responsible for deciding which criminal cases to pursue and making sure justice is served. They oversee criminal prosecutions, lead a team of lawyers, and work closely with law enforcement to investigate crimes. The DA’s job is to hold people accountable for breaking the law while also ensuring the legal process is fair. In short, they’re the ones making key decisions about public safety and criminal justice in the community.

What I Look for in Candidates:  When choosing a candidate for District Attorney, I’m looking for someone who’s serious about justice reform and accountability. I want a DA who isn’t just focused on letting people out of jail but is committed to accountability, addressing the root causes of crime, like poverty and mental health. They should prioritize fairness, transparency, and be willing to hold law enforcement accountable when necessary. I want someone who understands the balance between keeping our communities safe and ensuring that the criminal justice system is truly just for everyone. It’s about real justice, not just tough-on-crime rhetoric.

Term: 4 years

Judge of the Superior Court

About the Job: A Los Angeles County Superior Court judge is responsible for overseeing cases that range from criminal trials to civil disputes. They make rulings, ensure that trials are fair, and help guide the legal process by interpreting the law. Whether it’s deciding a sentence in a criminal case or resolving a business conflict, their job is to ensure justice is served while maintaining fairness and impartiality in the courtroom.

What I Look for in Candidates: Knowing that we won’t see or hear from most candidates running for judge ever again until their next election, when choosing a candidate for judge, I’m looking for someone who’s fair, impartial, and truly understands the law. They should have a strong sense of justice and be committed to ensuring that everyone gets a fair shot in the courtroom, regardless of their background. I want to see a judge who’s not only knowledgeable but also compassionate, with a track record of making decisions that reflect integrity and fairness. It’s about finding someone who will uphold the law while also considering the real-life impact their rulings have on people’s lives.

Term: 6 years

George Turner Jr

Office No. 39

Ericka Wiley

Office No. 48

Office No. 97

Georgia Huerta

Office No. 135

Tracey Blount

Office No. 137

Water Boards

About the Job: A water board member is responsible for overseeing the management and distribution of water resources in their district. They make decisions about water quality, supply, and infrastructure, ensuring that residents have access to clean and reliable water. Their role involves setting policies, approving budgets, and addressing community concerns about water usage and conservation. Essentially, they help keep the water system running smoothly and sustainably.

What I Look for in Candidates:  When choosing a candidate for the water board, I’m looking for someone who takes the responsibility of managing our water seriously. They should understand the importance of sustainability, conservation, and making sure our water supply is clean and reliable for everyone. I want to see a candidate who’s committed to transparency and accountability, and who knows how to balance the needs of the environment with the needs of the community. Water is a critical resource, and I’m looking for leaders who are ready to protect it for the long haul.

Term: 4 years

Leticia Vasquez

Central Basin Municipal Water District

County Measures

What They Are: A local measure is basically a proposal that voters in a city or county get to decide on directly. It could be about anything from taxes and public services to changes in how the government operates. Local measures give the community a say in shaping how things work in their own backyard, letting voters approve or reject changes that will impact their everyday lives. It’s democracy at a grassroots level.

What I Look for in Candidates: When it comes to supporting local measures or state propositions, I’m looking for how they’ll actually impact our community. Is it going to improve housing, public services, or schools? Will it make life better for working families or just benefit special interests? I dig into the details to see who’s backing it and what the real consequences are—because sometimes things are dressed up in a nice package, but the impact isn’t always what it seems. I want to support measures that bring real, positive change, not just empty promises.

G

NO

Amend the LA County Charter to create an elected County Executive, establish an independent Ethics Commission, add a Legislative Analyst, expand the Board of Supervisors from five to nine members, and require public budget presentations, using existing funds with no new taxes.

A

YES

Replacing the Measure H tax with a 1/2 cent sales tax, raising $1.08 billion annually for affordable housing, homelessness prevention, mental health treatment, and services for vulnerable groups, with new audits and oversight.

State Propositions

What They Are: A state proposition is a ballot measure that lets voters directly decide on new laws or changes to existing ones. It could be about taxes, public policy, or government reform. For a proposition to pass, it usually needs a simple majority—more than 50% of the vote—though some may require a higher threshold depending on the type of measure. State propositions give voters the power to make decisions that impact the whole state.

What I Look For: When it comes to supporting local measures or state propositions, I’m looking for how they’ll actually impact our community. Is it going to improve housing, public services, or schools? Will it make life better for working families or just benefit special interests? I dig into the details to see who’s backing it and what the real consequences are—because sometimes things are dressed up in a nice package, but the impact isn’t always what it seems. I want to support measures that bring real, positive change, not just empty promises.

2

YES

Repair local public schools to meet basic health and safety standards without raising taxes.

3

YES

Protect your freedom to marry. Enshrine marriage equality in the state constitution.

4

YES

Provides safe drinking water. Prevents wildfires. Protect CA from climate change.

5

YES

Creates more affordable housing for low and middle-income families, seniors, and veterans.

6

YES

Involuntary servitude is slavery.

32

YES

Raises the minimum wage.

33

YES

Allows expanded rent control and stops corporate landlords from gouging tenants.

34

NO

Restricts spending of prescription drug revenues by certain health care providers.

35

YES

Protects patient access to healthcare.

36

NO

Vote no on going back to mass incarceration.

President and Vice President

About the Job: The President of the United States is the nation’s leader and head of the executive branch, responsible for enforcing laws, setting national policies, and serving as commander-in-chief of the military. They represent the country on the global stage, sign or veto laws passed by Congress, and guide the direction of the nation.

The Vice President’s main job is to support the President and step in if the President is unable to serve. They also serve as the President of the Senate, where they cast tie-breaking votes. Together, they work to lead the country and make key decisions that affect all Americans.

What I Look for in Candidates: When I’m choosing a candidate for President, I’m looking for someone who’s not just talking, but has a real plan to lead the country forward. They need to understand the everyday struggles people are facing—whether it’s healthcare, economic inequality, or climate change—and be ready to take bold action. I want a President who can unite the country, show empathy, and work toward real solutions that benefit everyone, not just the wealthy or well-connected. It’s about leadership that’s grounded in justice, equity, and progress, and someone who has the vision and courage to deliver.

Term: 4 years

Kamala Harris

for President

Tim Walz

for Vice President

United States Senator

About the Job: A U.S. Senator represents their state in Washington, D.C., working on national laws and policies. They debate and vote on legislation, confirm presidential appointments, and have a say in treaties. Each state has two Senators, and their job is to look out for the interests of their state while shaping decisions that impact the entire country. Senators play a key role in making sure the voices of their constituents are heard on a national level.

What I Look for in Candidates: When it comes to choosing House of Representatives and U.S. Senate candidates, I’m looking for leaders who will show up and fight for the issues that matter most—whether that’s healthcare access, protecting voting rights, or tackling income inequality. I want to see candidates who aren’t just about talking points but have a real vision for how to move the country forward. They should be willing to stand up for their constituents, even when it’s tough, and be focused on passing policies that create meaningful change. I’m looking for action, integrity, and a commitment to justice.

Term: 4 years

No Recommendation

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