Overview of District 8
- Incumbent: Marqueece Harris-Dawson, seeking a third and final term.
- Number of Candidates: 3
- Location: South L.A., stretching from the I-10 near West Adams to Vermont Knolls in the south.
- Key Issues: Economic development, homelessness, public safety.
- Notable: Harris-Dawson was elected president pro tem of the council amid a backdrop of corruption charges against another council member. District 8 has the highest concentration of Black voters in Los Angeles.
Candidate Profiles
Marqueece Harris-Dawson
- Background: City Councilmember since 2015, leading projects like Destination Crenshaw.
- Platform Highlights: Advocates for housing efficiency, pedestrian and cyclist safety, public safety through community partnership, and job creation.
- Website: MarqueeceHarris-Dawson.com
Jahan Epps
- Background: Real estate broker focused on addressing housing discrimination and public safety.
- Platform Highlights: Aims to tackle affordable mortgage financing issues, create incentives for safe driving, and enhance transparency and community interaction.
- Website: JahanEpps.com (Website URL needs confirmation)
Cliff Smith
- Background: Union community organizer and business manager for Roofers Local 36.
- Platform Highlights: Proposes construction by local residents with prevailing wages, a vacancy tax, democratic community control over the police, and transforming South Central L.A. into a cultural hub.
- Website: CliffSmithWorkersParty.org
Key Considerations for District 8 Voters
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Housing and Homelessness: Candidates offer varied approaches to tackling these issues, from Harris-Dawson’s focus on efficiency and Smith’s call for utilizing eminent domain for transitional housing, to Epps’ emphasis on addressing mortgage financing.
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Public Safety: Each candidate provides unique solutions, including Harris-Dawson’s successful partnership with the LAPD in Harvard Park, Smith’s proposal for community control over the police department, and Epps’ infrastructure-focused strategy.
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Economic Development and Jobs: Harris-Dawson’s experience with Destination Crenshaw and advocacy for apprenticeship programs contrasts with Epps’ small business rewards program and Smith’s vision of creating a cultural and artistic hub in South Central L.A.
Voter Resources and Action
District 8 voters have a choice between continuity with Harris-Dawson’s experienced leadership, Epps’ real estate and safety focus, and Smith’s union-backed community organizing approach. Each candidate brings a distinct vision for addressing the district’s pressing issues.
For more detailed information on each candidate’s policies and endorsements, please visit their official campaign websites linked above.
