Election Recommendations

The Times endorses selectively, on a case-by-case basis. Here are recommendations for today’s primary election.

Proposition 55: No. This $12.3-billion bond measure to build and repair public schools and colleges is fully justified, but the state’s financial situation is too precarious for it to be approved now. If it fails today, it automatically bounces onto the November ballot. Vote no now; hope to vote yes later, when the state financial picture is clearer.

Los Angeles Unified School District Measure R: Yes. Unlike Proposition 55, this $3.87-billion measure provides a dedicated source, property taxes, to pay its debt. Los Angeles Unified is using its existing bond money well, but after decades of neglect its schools are still among the most crowded and dilapidated in the state.

Proposition 56: Yes. This measure, designed to end the almost annual budget stalemate in Sacramento, would lower the voting threshold for budgets, appropriations and taxes from two-thirds to 55%. California is one of only three states that require a two-thirds vote for such fiscal decisions. The result? Endless deadlock in the Legislature.

Proposition 57 and Proposition 58: Yes. These twin measures rise or fall together. Proposition 57 rolls up $15 billion in accumulated state debt and essentially refinances it. Proposition 58 institutes budget and spending curbs to help prevent a repeat of the overspending. The debt, to be paid over nine to 15 years from general state revenues, is distressing. But even with the bonds, the state still faces about a $6-billion yearly shortfall that must be eliminated with some combination of program cuts and temporary taxes. Without the bonds, much larger cuts and tax hikes would hurt the state’s ability to compete.

Los Angeles County District Attorney: Steve Cooley. Incumbent Cooley can claim accomplishments that merit a second term. Although his decisions to shut down the Rampart and Belmont probes are as inexplicable as they are disheartening, Cooley has put in place sensible policies to guide prosecutors on three strikes and juvenile offenders.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judges:

Office 18: Miguel Dager

Office 29: Jeffrey Gootman

Office 52: Laura Priver

Office 53: Craig Jordan Mitchell

Office 67: Judge Richard Van Dusen

Office 69: Donna Groman

Office 72: Judge David Wesley

Office 95: Judge Dan Oki

Office 111: Stella Owens-Murrell