Which Way, L.A.?
With Latino Plurality in CA, Is Parity in Local Politics Next?
Latinos have surpassed whites as the state’s largest ethnic minority, but political power may be a long time coming. We hear about legal cases to equal the playing field.
By Warren Olney • • 25m ListenAs we reported last night, Latinos surpassed whites this month as California's largest ethnic minority. But political power proportional to their numbers may be a long time coming. In many cities with large Latino populations, city councils are almost all white. We hear about legal cases designed to equal the playing field in Anaheim, Whittier, Santa Clarita and other cities. Also, a third State Senator's been arrested on corruption charges. Can the Democrats' "supermajority" be restored?
Later, on To the Point, in Brussels today, President Obama made an impassioned speech — promising US and European unity against what he called Russian aggression in Ukraine. Did he reassure those Europeans who worry that the US has backed away from long-standing involvement?
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2 storiesLatinos Have the Numbers, What about Political Power?
This month, demographers say, Latinos became California's largest ethnic minority — with 39% of the population compared to 38.8% of whites. But they don't have voting power that's proportional to their numbers or proportional representation on local elective bodies.
Read the story17 minState Senator Yee's Inditement Latest Blow to Sacramento Dems
Leland Yee , who lives in San Francisco, represents parts of the Bay Area in the State Senate. He's also a candidate in this year's statewide election to be Secretary of State. Today, Yee was arrested on charges of corruption by FBI agents, who handcuffed him and took him away.
Read the story8 min
