In Colorado’s D.A. Races, Disagreements Abound on Criminal Justice Reform
In four populous districts with open prosecutor elections, debates center on issues such as drug policy, jail capacity, and police impunity.
Daniel Nichanian September 25, 2020
How One Election Might Strike a Blow to Mass Incarceration in Arizona
In Maricopa County, years of harsh charging and sentencing policies have sent state incarceration rates soaring. Now that legacy is in question in November's prosecutor election.
Meg O'Connor September 22, 2020
Joe Arpaio’s Longtime Deputy Could Become the Next Sheriff of Maricopa County
Jerry Sheridan, who beat Arpaio in the Republican primary, has been complicit in many of the former sheriff’s worst misdeeds.
Jerry Iannelli September 17, 2020
A New Association of Progressive D.A.s Could Overhaul California’s Reform Movement
Prosecutors across the country are rethinking their membership in professional organizations that oppose a meaningful reform agenda.
Jay Willis September 15, 2020
Cincinnati Is an Epicenter for the Death Penalty. Its Prosecutor Race Could End That in November.
In Hamilton County, Joe Deters has sent more people to death row than any other prosecutor in Ohio. His challenger, Fanon Rucker, promises to stop that practice.
Rachel M. Cohen September 15, 2020
Charleston Prosecutor Candidate Wants to “Shut Off the Mass Incarceration Mindset”
In a Q&A, Ben Pogue, who is running to be the chief prosecutor of South Carolina’s Ninth Circuit, discusses how he would confront racial injustice.
Daniel Nichanian September 14, 2020
Why a Suburban Illinois Prosecutor Candidate Is Drawing Inspiration From Protests
This DeKalb County attorney says that fighting mass incarceration will make people safer than President Trump’s “law and order” messaging.
Daniel Nichanian September 9, 2020
Georgia Sheriff Elections Could Limit ICE’s Reach
In Gwinnett and Cobb counties, sheriff candidates are promising to roll back cooperation with ICE. Advocates say they should cut ties completely, while the federal agency threatens retaliation.
Timothy Pratt September 4, 2020
Oregon Could Become the First State to Decriminalize Drugs in November
A ballot initiative could decriminalize low-level drug possession and fund addiction treatment.
Zachary A. Siegel September 1, 2020
In Massachusetts, the Democratic Party Shifts Toward Supporting Voting Rights for All
Most members of the state’s congressional delegation now say they support restoring voting rights to incarcerated people. Will Tuesday’s primaries elect more proponents?
Daniel Nichanian August 28, 2020
Policing And Ties With ICE On The Menu In Norfolk County’s Sheriff Race
This Massachusetts special election, which starts with next week’s Democratic primary, will shape criminal justice reform prospects in this county—and in state politics.
Daniel Nichanian August 25, 2020
Eviction Crisis Brings Urgency to Local Judge Elections
A heated race for New Orleans First City Court Judge highlighted the power judges have to limit evictions, as millions of Americans are at risk of losing their homes.
Katie Jane Fernelius August 20, 2020
Progressive Candidate Wins Orlando’s Primary for Prosecutor, and Four Other Florida Takeaways
In Florida’s primaries, voters set up November clashes on criminal justice, multiple sheriffs lost re-election bids, and Miami’s prosecutor secured a new term.
Daniel Nichanian August 19, 2020
“Making Powerful People Feel Uncomfortable Is A Good Thing”: Enter Vermont’s High Bailiffs
Two criminal justice reform advocates, now poised to become high bailiffs, are reimagining this odd office to make the case for civilian oversight on law enforcement.
Daniel Nichanian August 18, 2020
Broward County Will Elect Its First New Prosecutor in 44 Years. Will the Office Veer Left?
In South Florida, the crowded Aug. 18 Democratic primary features one candidate who says he would not prosecute sex work and marijuana possession cases.
Jerry Iannelli August 11, 2020
Wisconsin is Voting For Its D.A.s, But Democracy Is Not On The Ballot
Nearly all of its 71 DA elections feature a candidate running unopposed. Once again, voters won’t have a say over the shape of prosecution and criminal justice.
Daniel Nichanian August 11, 2020
Sheriffs Have A Lot Of Power Over Whether Hundreds Of Thousands Of People Can Vote
They can either make necessary voter registration and ballot materials accessible to people in their custody, or make them impossible to obtain.
Kira Lerner August 10, 2020
Orlando Prosecutor Race Plays Out In The Shadow Of Florida’s Retaliation Against Reform
State Attorney Aramis Ayala has faced reprisal for bold criminal justice reforms. The Aug. 18 election will determine whether her successor builds on her legacy or backtracks.
Samantha Schuyler August 7, 2020
Progressives Score New Wins in Prosecutor Elections, Adding to the Movement’s Breadth
“Maybe we do teach the liberal bastions how things can be done by these country bumpkins over here,” said one winning candidate.
Daniel Nichanian August 5, 2020
Iowa Governor Expands Voting Rights
Governor Kim Reynolds’ executive order restores the voting rights of tens of thousands of people. But it will also leave many Iowans disenfranchised, and little time remains before the November election.
Kira Lerner August 5, 2020
Nine Elections This Week Could Upend Criminal Justice Nationwide
From Aug. 4 to Aug. 8, keep an eye on Arizona, Hawaii, Kansas, Michigan, and Missouri.
Daniel Nichanian August 3, 2020
Pima County Candidates Battle Over Whether the Prosecutor’s Office Needs an Outsider to Achieve Reform
In this Arizona county with over one million residents, two career prosecutors are facing off against a former public defender in the Aug. 4 Democratic primary, which will decide the election.
Meg O'Connor July 30, 2020
Eleven Prosecutors Form a Progressive Alliance in Virginia
Their move breaches expectations of a monolithic law enforcement perspective, which in the past has helped DA associations push a punitive agenda.
Daniel Nichanian July 28, 2020
Honolulu’s Prosecutor Race Could Flip Hawaii’s Punitive Culture
Running in one of Hawaii’s two open elections for prosecutor, a public defender wants the state to take a progressive turn.
Daniel Nichanian July 24, 2020
St. Louis Prosecutor Faces Voters, After Years of Sustained Fire from Police Union
Kim Gardner has an Aug. 4 rematch against a former prosecutor whom she defeated four years ago, but the terrain has shifted significantly since 2016.
Rachel M. Cohen July 23, 2020
In Detroit Prosecutor Race, a Stark Contrast on Whether Children Should Serve Life in Prison
Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy has taken a hardline approach toward people sentenced to life without parole as minors. Her challenger says no children should be sentenced to life.
Kira Lerner July 22, 2020
Jamaal Bowman Wants Democrats to Be the “Party of Dismantling Mass Incarceration”
Fresh off of his likely victory, Jamaal Bowman talks about defunding the NYPD and cutting down the criminal legal system.
Daniel Nichanian July 17, 2020
Missouri Voters Could Expand Medicaid and Curb the Overdose Crisis
A referendum to expand Medicaid may be a turning point for a state with some of the worst health outcomes related to substance use.
Zachary A. Siegel July 17, 2020
In Austin Prosecutor Races, Wins for the Left and a Milestone for Drug Decriminalization
The Travis County DA lost resoundingly to a progressive advocate who ran on shrinking the mission of criminal justice and not prosecuting low-level drug cases.
Daniel Nichanian July 15, 2020
A Texas Referendum Provides an Early Window Into Battles Over Police Budgets
Voters in Fort Worth will decide on Tuesday whether to renew a sales tax that funds the police, and local advocates want people to “reimagine” which public services boost safety.
James Russell July 10, 2020
Democrats Running for Prosecutor Want to Break With Maricopa County’s Punitive Past
All three candidates said they would commit to reducing the Arizona prison population if elected, though their visions of the role of the county attorney’s office diverge.
Meg O'Connor July 9, 2020
D.C. Is Poised To Abolish Felony Disenfranchisement
Washington, D.C., is joining Maine and Vermont in allowing incarcerated people to vote.
Oklahoma and Oregon Deliver Two Measures Of Relief For People Facing Poverty
Hundreds of thousands will gain access to public health insurance in Oklahoma, and will avoid having their licenses suspended over debt in Oregon.
Daniel Nichanian July 1, 2020
Austin D.A. Candidate Wants to Stop Sweeping Issues Under the Rug of Criminal Justice
José Garza makes the case for why he would not prosecute low-level drug cases, and how he would hold police accountable in Travis County, in a Q&A.
Daniel Nichanian June 30, 2020
Washington Sheriff Faces Recall Efforts for Endangering Public Health
The Snohomish County sheriff is among a string of officials nationwide who have combined a refusal to enforce lockdown orders with broader policies of increased policing and arrests.
Jessica Pishko June 25, 2020
How Black Lives Matter is Shaping New York’s D.A. Elections: “Police and D.A.s Work Hand in Hand”
Candidates are sparring over their attitudes toward the police in Tompkins and Westchester counties, which hold DA elections on Tuesday.
Daniel Nichanian June 18, 2020
States Expect People to Risk Their Health Even When Voting by Mail, Advocates Warn
Voting rights groups want states to stop requiring that voters get a witness or notary to sign their ballots, at least during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kira Lerner June 17, 2020
A Pro-ICE Bastion Ends Its Partnership With the Agency in Virginia
Prince William County has forged a close partnership with ICE. But a local board opted to end its 287(g) contract on Wednesday.
Felipe De La Hoz June 15, 2020
Georgia Sheriff Who Cooperated with ICE Loses Re-Election Bid
John Williams, the winner in Athens, pledged to not assist ICE and not take donations from the bail bond industry. Georgia will host other heated sheriff’s races in the fall.
Daniel Nichanian June 12, 2020
When Sheriffs Choose to Help ICE
When people are arrested and booked into a local jail, they often end up on ICE’s radar. Sheriffs are a major reason why.
Jessica Pishko June 9, 2020
How Unequal Perceptions of Protest and Violence Shape Black Lives Matter
Juliet Hooker, a scholar of Black political thought, discusses Black Lives Matter, asymmetrical perceptions of violence, and the role that images play in our politics.
Daniel Nichanian June 4, 2020
New York Senator Makes the Case for Defunding the NYPD
“These changes won’t be made unless we demand them loudly and relentlessly,” says state Senator Julia Salazar.
Daniel Nichanian June 1, 2020
COVID-19 Stalls Efforts to Help People with Felony Convictions Register to Vote
In states that restored people’s voting rights, many public agencies aren’t doing enough to assist, and the pandemic slowed grassroots plans to pick up the slack.
Stephanie Wykstra May 28, 2020
How ICE is Using Private Contractors to Dodge Local Democracy
The agency is pursuing contracts with private detention providers to circumvent state and local efforts to curtail and regulate immigrant detention.
Felipe De La Hoz May 26, 2020
Progressive Winner in Portland D.A. Race Expects ‘Shock Waves’ in Oregon’s Punitive System
“Multnomah County has just embraced the most progressive DA platform that this state has ever seen,” said Mike Schmidt, who credited grassroots organizers for his win.
Daniel Nichanian May 20, 2020
Washington Governor Vetoes Bill That Would Have Automatically Cleared Criminal Records
Advocates stress that automating the expungement process will help protect people with past charges or convictions from the economic devastation of COVID-19.
Rachel M. Cohen May 19, 2020
“There’s an Appetite for Change” in Rural Counties, Says New Mexico D.A. Candidate
Brett Phelps, a public defender who is running for DA in the June Democratic primary, makes the case that rural areas are crucial for criminal justice reform.
Daniel Nichanian May 15, 2020
New Mexico D.A.s United to Torpedo Reforms. The 2020 Elections Could Breach That Unanimity.
The June primaries may give reform advocates new allies for ideas they have championed, for instance on drug policy, parole, and voting rights.
Daniel Nichanian May 15, 2020
Santa Fe’s D.A. Candidates Want to Wind Down the War on Drugs
The Political Report talks to the two DA candidates in New Mexico’s First Judicial District. They share similar views on drug policy, part ways elsewhere.
Daniel Nichanian May 15, 2020
Brian Kemp’s Sham Democracy in Georgia
The poster boy of Republican voter suppression is using loopholes in state law to cancel key Supreme Court and district attorney races in 2020.
Jay Willis May 13, 2020
Oregon’s D.A. Elections Mock Democracy, Again
DAs keep resigning in election years, and governors keep appointing deputy prosecutors who then get to face voters as incumbents. It happened again this year.
Daniel Nichanian May 7, 2020
A Powerful D.A. Fought New York’s Reforms. His Challenger Wants to Push Them Further.
Matt Toporowski, up against the former head of the DA’s association, says he would “walk down the halls with advocates and lobby for progressive reform.”
Daniel Nichanian April 30, 2020
Cincinnati Voters Oust Sheriff Who Cooperated with ICE and Championed a New Jail
“The solution to the problem of mass incarceration is certainly not more mass incarceration,” said Charmaine McGuffey, who won. In neighboring Greene County, voters rejected a tax increase to build a bigger jail.
Daniel Nichanian April 29, 2020
Virginia Ends Prison Gerrymandering, the Latest Chapter in a Recent Tidal Wave
New law changes where incarcerated people are counted for redistricting. Advocates vow to push against felony disenfranchisement next year.
Daniel Nichanian April 23, 2020
A New Supreme Court Justice Could Swing Criminal Justice Decisions in Washington
What newly-appointed G. Helen Whitener does next will shape whether Washington State moves in a more progressive direction.
Kyle C. Barry April 23, 2020
Cities Roll Out Rent Assistance. Advocates Demand Bigger and Bolder Help.
New initiatives are helping thousands from Boston to San Jose. But low funding and poor protections have advocates worried programs are falling short.
Sophie Kasakove April 22, 2020
Algorithms of Inequality
The algorithms states are rolling out to ration scarce resources during the COVID-19 pandemic may ensure that white patients and wealthy patients are more likely to receive life-saving care.
Pria Anand April 17, 2020
Virginia Takes a Big Step Against Criminalizing Poverty
Ending the suspension of driver’s licenses over court debt will spare hundreds of thousands each year. Advocates call for more action against fines and fees, especially during COVID-19.
Daniel Nichanian April 17, 2020
Virginia Makes It Easier to Vote by Mail
The state will no longer require an excuse when voters request an absentee ballot. Advocates say public authorities need to devote enough resources to facilitate mail-in voting and preserve alternatives.
Daniel Nichanian April 16, 2020
In Wisconsin, Liberal Challenger Wins Despite Voting Restrictions and Tough-on-Crime Playbook
Jill Karofsky ousted a conservative Supreme Court Justice in an election marred by the COVID-19 pandemic, poll closures, and missing absentee ballots.
Kyle C. Barry April 14, 2020
“Unconscionable”: New York Senator Denounces State’s Medicaid Cuts and Criminal Justice Reform Rollbacks
“When we look back on this time, what we’re going to be judged by is how we protected those who are most vulnerable,” Alessandra Biaggi said.
Daniel Nichanian April 9, 2020
“It Is Public Safety to Get People Out of Incarceration”: Q&A with Portland D.A. Candidate
Michael Schmidt, who is running for DA in May in Oregon’s largest county, shares his views on criminal justice reform during and beyond the pandemic.
Daniel Nichanian April 2, 2020
Tuesday’s Supreme Court Race Is the Latest Chapter in Wisconsin’s Heated Power Struggle
But one candidate wants voters to forget the beliefs and career record driving his jurisprudence, with criminal justice at issue.
Kyle C. Barry April 2, 2020
Some Supreme Courts Are Helping Shrink Jails to Stop Outbreaks. Others Are Lagging Behind.
In several states, supreme courts issued direct orders to reduce arrests and release people over the past week.
Kyle C. Barry March 25, 2020
“Time Is of the Essence”: How States Can Shore Up Mail Voting
An expert in election procedures unpacks how states should scale up mail voting, and how they should make sure no one is left behind.
Daniel Nichanian March 24, 2020
Colorado Abolishes the Death Penalty and Ends Prison Gerrymandering
Nationwide efforts against the death penalty and against prison gerrymandering have gained considerable momentum just over the past two years.
Daniel Nichanian March 23, 2020
Kim Foxx Defeats Three Challengers in Re-Election Bid as Chicago’s Chief Prosecutor
Foxx claimed a mandate for criminal justice reform after securing the Democratic nomination in Cook County tonight. She will be favored in the general election.
Mari Cohen March 18, 2020
This Tense Sheriff’s Race Could Change Cincinnati’s Poor Jail Conditions
Ohio advocates are resisting proposals to expand the jail and local cooperation with ICE. In the primary on Tuesday, the sheriff and his challenger disagree on both fronts.
Teresa Mathew March 12, 2020
Courts Set Policy, and a Judicial Candidate in Illinois Wants to Finally Talk About It
“In some cases we need the Illinois Supreme Court to use its policy making powers to make criminal justice reform real,” said Daniel Epstein, a candidate in Tuesday’s election.
Kyle C. Barry March 12, 2020
For Decarceration, Election Results Bring One Big Win and Some Prolonged Suspense
Austin, Houston, and Los Angeles voted on Super Tuesday, with stakes for incarceration and criminal justice reform.
Daniel Nichanian March 6, 2020
On Tuesday, Two Alabama Sheriffs Regained Power to Divert Jail Food Funds
“This incentivizes them once again to underfeed people in their custody if they know the extras can be used on bells and whistles or guns,” warns an Alabama advocate.
Lauren Gill March 5, 2020
Progressives See Super Tuesday as a Chance to Transform Los Angeles
“We’re at a watershed moment for criminal justice reform,” Patrisse Cullors, a co-founder of Black Lives Matter, said about Measure R and LA’s upcoming DA election.
Daniel Nichanian February 28, 2020
Virginia Makes All Children Eligible for Parole, a Major Shift for This Punitive State
The reform’s impact will hinge on Virginia’s parole board no longer denying most applications it receives.
Daniel Nichanian February 24, 2020
D.A. Associations Should Own Up to the Splintering Politics of Prosecution
California’s DA association responded to a critic in a letter signed by nearly all prosecutors. But this may only exacerbate worries about DAs’ tendency to talk in a single political voice.
Daniel Nichanian February 14, 2020
Austin Prosecutor Candidate Wants to Cut His Budget and Avoid Jailing Anyone
Dominic Selvera hopes to “shrink the system” if elected Travis County Attorney. In a Q&A, he explained how he would cut prosecutions, and steer money toward public services “outside of the criminal justice system.”
Daniel Nichanian February 13, 2020
Blockbuster D.A. Races Rock Big Texas Counties, from Austin to Houston
The death penalty, drug policy, and bail reform are shaping Texas debates, with primaries just weeks away. But across the state, hundreds of local elections are left uncontested.
Daniel Nichanian January 30, 2020
Chesa Boudin’s New Bail Policy is Nation’s Most Progressive. It Also Reveals Persistence of Tough-on-Crime Norms.
Boudin just eliminated cash bail and restricted pretrial detention in San Francisco. He also reaffirmed a flawed quest to predict who should be jailed over what they might do.
Colin Doyle January 30, 2020
When a Sheriff’s Jail Is Emptied
New York sheriffs are fighting the state’s cuts to pretrial detention. But bail reform can push sheriffs to embrace shrinking jails.
Jessica Pishko January 24, 2020
California Prosecutor Quits State’s D.A. Association: “Let’s Accept Responsibility for The Mistakes We’ve Made”
The CDAA has opposed “almost all change that the voters of California had asked us to enact," San Joaquin County DA Tori Salazar said in a Q&A.
Daniel Nichanian January 23, 2020
When New Jersey Next Redistricts, It Will Count Incarcerated People Where They Lived
A new law ends prison gerrymandering in legislative redistricting. New Jersey will continue to disenfranchise incarcerated people.
Daniel Nichanian January 21, 2020
Where Are the (Reform) Candidates in Ohio?
Few Ohio elections feature candidates talking of criminal justice reform, with some notable exceptions such as in Cincinnati. Some activists are pressing ahead through other organizing.
Daniel Nichanian January 16, 2020
How Rachel Rossi Would Change the D.A.’s Role in Los Angeles: “It Takes a Public Defender”
Rossi rules out seeking the death penalty or prosecuting sex work. “Oftentimes justice may mean a restorative outcome. Oftentimes justice may mean never filing a case,” she said in a Q&A.
Daniel Nichanian January 16, 2020
The Prosecutorial Chronicles, Jan. 2020: New Officials Take First Steps, Halt Pot Charges
Two Virginia prosecutors stop charging marijuana possession—mostly. And newly-elected DAs are sworn in as well in California, New York, and Pennsylvania.
Daniel Nichanian January 16, 2020
How George Gascón Wants to Reform Los Angeles and Achieve “the Lowest Level of Intervention”
“The problem is that LA County has come to a place where they use the most expensive and the most intrusive tools of the criminal justice system to deal with every behavior," Gascón said in a Q&A.
Daniel Nichanian January 9, 2020
In Maryland, an Abrupt Change in Leadership Could Boost Sentencing and Parole Reform
In a Q&A, Senator William Smith lays out his priorities to encourage decarceration as the new chair of a powerful Maryland committee.
Daniel Nichanian January 9, 2020
From Marijuana to the Death Penalty, States Led the Way in 2019
A retrospective on the year that was on criminal justice reform. Seven maps. 16 issues. 50 states.
Daniel Nichanian December 20, 2019
One Week’s Work: New Jersey and Kentucky Restore Voting Rights to More than 200,000
More than 200,000 people regain their voting rights, and advocates vow further action. “To vote has value to the soul,” a New Jersey advocate said at a signing ceremony.
Daniel Nichanian December 18, 2019
The Prosecutorial Chronicles, Dec. 2019 edition: A Tale of Political Contrasts
Some prosecutors speak up for ending disenfranchisement and sending their staff to visit prisons, while a Pennsylvania DA sought to block a release.
Daniel Nichanian December 12, 2019
As Illinois Votes for Its Prosecutors, Defense Attorneys Say to Not “Just Go with the Flow”
We preview the 2020 races for prosecutor in the biggest Illinois counties, starting with the high-stakes election in Cook County (Chicago).
Daniel Nichanian December 12, 2019
In 2020, Look at Sheriffs and Prosecutors Too
In Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, and beyond, next year will bring blockbuster local elections that could overhaul law enforcement and criminal justice.
Daniel Nichanian December 5, 2019
Prosecutor and Sheriff Elections in 2020: A Masterlist and Calendar
Nearly 2,300 prosecutors and sheriffs are set to be elected in 2020. This page details which counties are voting, and their filing deadlines and election dates.
Daniel Nichanian November 27, 2019
When People in Prison Can Vote, Officials “Treat Them With Some Respect”
A New York bill would abolish felony disenfranchisement. That would mean law enforcement is no longer the arbiter of who gets to vote.
Daniel Nichanian November 22, 2019
As Michigan Raises the Age, Advocates Vow to Press for More Change
Michigan automatically treats all 17-year olds as adults, but that will soon change with a major new reform. But prosecutors will retain broad discretion.
Daniel Nichanian November 14, 2019
“This Is Where the Real Work Begins”: What Chesa Boudin’s Win Means for San Francisco
Two San Francisco-based advocates discuss the organizing that helped Chesa Boudin, and the next steps for mass incarceration and criminal justice reform.
Daniel Nichanian November 14, 2019
Voters Beyond Big Cities Rejected Mass Incarceration in Tuesday’s Elections
A wave of progressive candidates prevailed in elections for prosecutor, overhauling the politics of criminal justice in Virginia and beyond.
Daniel Nichanian November 7, 2019
Your Guide to the 2019 Elections, in Six Questions
Will 2019 grow the ranks of decarceral officials? The results will shape bail reform, policing and charging practices, ICE cooperation, voting rights, and more.
Daniel Nichanian October 31, 2019
“How Are You Keeping My Community Safe If You’re Stealing My Resources?”
A candidate for prosecutor in Loudoun County, Virginia responds to attacks on her background and argues that criminal justice reform can help public safety.
Daniel Nichanian October 24, 2019
D.A.s Increasingly Treat Overdoses as Homicides. Will November Reel That In?
In New York and Pennsylvania, some DA elections could slow the surge of homicide prosecutions in the aftermath of an overdose.
Daniel Nichanian October 24, 2019
Louisiana Sheriffs Have a Great Election Night
ICE cooperation and detention conditions were on the line, but sheriff races struggled for salience and drew bipartisan consensus.
Daniel Nichanian October 17, 2019
Reform Candidates Face Pushback in Virginia
In Fairfax and Chesterfield counties, candidates for prosecutor want to reduce the volume of felony convictions. Reform opponents have coalesced against them.
Daniel Nichanian October 17, 2019
New York Adopted Pretrial Reforms. Its DA Races Will Decide Who Implements Them.
New York DA candidates starkly disagree on bail and discovery reforms in Queens and three upstate counties, Dutchess, Monroe, and Ulster.
Daniel Nichanian October 10, 2019
A Public Defender, Running for DA in Pittsburgh, Wants to Join Forces with Philly’s Larry Krasner
Lisa Middleman is challenging Allegheny County DA Stephen Zappala in November. DAs should be “reducing mass incarceration and creating equity,” she told the Political Report.
Daniel Nichanian October 4, 2019
New Jersey Attorney General Bans ICE’s 287(g) Program
Gurbir Grewal terminated existing 287(g) contracts. But immigrants will continue to be treated differently.
Daniel Nichanian October 4, 2019
New Jersey’s 2019 Elections for Sheriff: A Masterlist
New Jersey is holding 11 elections for sheriff in 2019. This page has a masterlist of the candidates who ran.
October 4, 2019
Elections Could Expand Voting Rights This Fall. They Will Take Place in an “Intolerable Condition.”
The November elections in Mississippi, Kentucky and Virginia could alter the politics of rights restoration and potentially expand the electorate.
Daniel Nichanian September 26, 2019
How Sheriffs’ Power and Autonomy Make Them Central Players for Policing Reform
Our ongoing series on the role of sheriffs turns to a site of heated political battles: policing powers.
Jessica Pishko September 26, 2019
Prosecutors Roll Out Reforms in Four States
A Maryland prosecutor stops seeking cash bail, Kentucky and Virginia prosecutors limit pot cases, and a Hawaii prosecutor reduces charges for driving offenses.
Daniel Nichanian September 19, 2019
In Louisiana, Sheriff Elections Will Shape ICE’s Reach
“They’re trying to send Hispanics to Mexico or Honduras and put Black men in jail,” said one candidate regarding prevailing practices. “The United States is made for everybody.”
Daniel Nichanian September 19, 2019
California Legislature Adopts a Flurry of Criminal Justice Reforms
New laws signed by Governor Newsom target private prisons, and fines and fees, the power of DAs, and more.
Daniel Nichanian September 19, 2019
Federal Judge Rebukes Houston DA for Using the Willie Horton Strategy
The response lays bare the absurd premise of those who offer a handful of anecdotes as reason enough to oppose a systemic reform.
Daniel Nichanian September 12, 2019
“We Won’t Have People Stacked on Top of One Another in Prisons, in Cages”
In a Q&A, Jennifer Riley Collins explains how she would fight overincarceration if she is elected as attorney general of Mississippi this November.
Daniel Nichanian September 6, 2019
Illinois Bans ICE Program, but This Reform Is Not Yet Taking Off Elsewhere
Illinois prohibition against 287(g) contracts comes two years after California’s ban.
Daniel Nichanian September 5, 2019
In Mississippi, Candidates for Governor Are Divided on Expanding Medicaid
Medicaid expansion foe wins GOP primary, sets up November clash on an issue with deep implications for the criminal legal system.
Daniel Nichanian August 29, 2019
Longtime Public Defender Runs for Prosecutor to Fight “Family Separation”
"I saw families that were torn apart, and I saw the consequences of that,” Jim Hingeley, a candidate running in Albemarle County, Virginia, said in a Q&A.
Daniel Nichanian August 28, 2019
Reform Prosecutors Respond to Attack by U.S. Attorney General
Checking-in on the politics of prosecutors: A Vermont state's attorney makes waves, and California and Florida prosecutors plan on dismissing more drug charges
Daniel Nichanian August 22, 2019
Governor’s Race Could Decide If Louisiana’s Prison Population Continues to Shrink
Louisiana shed its status as the top incarcerator in the county last year, but the trend is fragile.
Daniel Nichanian August 21, 2019
Prosecutor Sends Staff to Prison, in a Bid to Counter Their Reflex to Incarcerate
A Q&A with Sarah Fair George, a Vermont prosecutor: "imagine how this might impact somebody who is there for six months or a year."
Daniel Nichanian August 14, 2019
Death Penalty, Prison Gerrymandering, and ICE May Be on Colorado's 2020 Menu
Advocates of criminal justice reform prepare their next legislative efforts in states like Colorado where the 2019 session is over.
Daniel Nichanian August 14, 2019
Oregon Overhauls Its Youth Justice System
New law abolishes life without parole for minors, expands opportunities for early release, and restricts the prosecution of children as adults.
Daniel Nichanian July 25, 2019
Criminal Justice Reform in the States: July 19, 2019 edition
Legislative Roundup: New Jersey adopts rare restrictions on solitary confinement, Missouri reform will cut prison population, and more
Daniel Nichanian July 19, 2019
Hawaii Governor Sinks Criminal Justice Reforms, Allows Pot Decriminalization
Governor Ige vetoed bills restricting civil asset forfeiture and enabling the release of terminally ill people.
Daniel Nichanian July 18, 2019
Will November Bring a “Wave” of Reform Prosecutors in Virginia?
Competitive elections for prosecutor will shape the prospects of decarceral reforms, from Fairfax to Chesterfield.
Daniel Nichanian July 18, 2019
Prince William County Is at a Crossroads, As Powerful Local Officials Retire
In November, voters get to orient prosecutorial discretion and immigration policy in the second most populous county in Virginia.
Daniel Nichanian July 11, 2019
Clock is Ticking to Fix Prison Gerrymandering
With redistricting fast approaching, Nevada and Washington end prison gerrymandering, but reforms stall elsewhere.
Daniel Nichanian July 3, 2019
The Queens D.A. Race Shakes Up New York's Legal System: "This is Just the Beginning"
Our roundtable probes the stakes of the Queens DA election for criminal justice reform: “If there is room for reform anywhere in the boroughs of New York City, it is in Queens.”
Daniel Nichanian June 20, 2019
Colorado Governor Opposed Banning ICE Contracts. But They May Already Violate State Law.
A new Colorado law curbs ICE’s reach, but it was weakened during the legislative process and stripped of its prohibition against ICE contracts.
Daniel Nichanian June 13, 2019
In Key Virginia Primaries, Winners Ran on Ending Mass Incarceration
Parisa Dehghani-Tafti and Steve Descano oust the chief prosecutors of Arlington and Fairfax counties, overhauling prosecution in Northern Virginia.
Daniel Nichanian June 12, 2019
Tuesday's Elections Could Overhaul Prosecution in Northern Virginia
Virginians are voting for their prosecutors in Arlington, Fairfax, and Prince William counties.
Daniel Nichanian June 6, 2019
Legalized Pot, Reduced Sentences: Three States Reform Their Drug Laws
Illinois is set to legalize marijuana, while Colorado and Oklahoma tackled possession of other drugs.
Daniel Nichanian June 6, 2019
A Double Blow to Disenfranchisement
Colorado and Nevada will now restore voting rights upon release from incarceration, amid nationwide efforts against disenfranchisement.
Daniel Nichanian May 31, 2019
“It Is Not Smart to Focus on Prosecuting Victimless Crimes like Drug Possession:” A Q&A with Amy Ashworth
Amy Ashworth, who is running for prosecutor of Prince William County, discusses declinations, the death penalty, and cash bail.
Daniel Nichanian May 30, 2019
New Hampshire Abolishes the Death Penalty
New Hampshire becomes the 21st state to abolish the death penalty.
Daniel Nichanian May 30, 2019
Mixed Results for Criminal Justice Reformers in Pennsylvania Primaries
Philadelphia ousts its sheriff. The Allegheny County DA wins the Democratic primary.
Daniel Nichanian May 23, 2019
Foreclosures and ICE Are on the Menu in Philadelphia’s Sheriff Election
An incumbent sheriff faces three challengers in the Democratic primary.
Daniel Nichanian May 16, 2019
The Opioid Crisis and the Elected Sheriff
Sheriffs often control access to treatment in jail and shape law enforcement attitudes toward the opioid crisis. What are their roles?
Jessica Pishko May 9, 2019
How We Count People Skews Political Power
The new citizenship question and the longstanding practice of prison gerrymandering weaponize the census to change the racial geography of power.
“A Sliver of Light”: Maine’s Top Election Official on Voting From Prison
The Appeal: Political Report talks to Matthew Dunlap, the secretary of state of Maine, about how prison voting works there.
Daniel Nichanian May 2, 2019
Bernie Sanders Explains Why He Supports Voting Rights for All Citizens
In a Q&A, Bernie Sanders explains why he wants to abolish felony disenfranchisement. "The right to vote is inalienable to my mind whether you're in jail or any place else," he said.
Daniel Nichanian April 30, 2019
Legislative Roundup: April 25, 2019 edition
Daniel Nichanian April 26, 2019
Advocates Press States to Recognize that Young Adults Can Change Too
Illinois law uses a cutoff age of 21. Advocates ask, why should people be cut off from the logic of having a separate youth justice system because they are a day over 18?
Daniel Nichanian April 25, 2019
An Interview with Steve Descano: “Ending Mass Incarceration” Requires “a Systemic Approach”
A candidate for prosecutor in Fairfax County, Virginia, explains his views on criminal justice reform, from charging practices and drugs to the death penalty.
Daniel Nichanian April 18, 2019
Legislative Roundup: April 18, 2019 edition
New Hampshire legislature adopts death penalty abolition, Colorado House votes to expand voting rights, and more.
Daniel Nichanian April 18, 2019
Legislative Roundup (April 11 Edition)
Daniel Nichanian April 11, 2019
New York Sheriff Who Joined ICE Program May Coast to Re-Election
Sheriff Patrick Russo faces no challengers. But the state legislature could act to restrict local cooperation with the federal agency.
Daniel Nichanian April 11, 2019
Why New Jersey’s Sheriff Elections Matter
Eleven New Jersey counties vote for their sheriff this year. These elections could shape immigration policy, law enforcement, and jail conditions.
Daniel Nichanian April 11, 2019
How Public Transit, State Reform, and DA Practices Can Counter Driver’s License Suspensions
While Durham pursues an initiative to reinstate licenses, a Duke University decision sets back the mobility of local residents.
Daniel Nichanian April 4, 2019
What Are the Prospects for an Initiative on Rights Restoration in Mississippi?
With the legislative path sidelined once more, could the state emulate Florida in narrowing felony disenfranchisement?
Daniel Nichanian March 28, 2019
Jail Deaths and the Elected Sheriff
Jail deaths happen with alarming regularity. The Badge probes the responsibility of sheriffs.
Jessica Pishko March 21, 2019
Reformers Push to Expand and Automate Expungement
Utah legislation would automate expungement process, Delaware bill would effectively create one.
Daniel Nichanian March 21, 2019
States Move to Halt the Death Penalty
Daniel Nichanian March 14, 2019
Legal but Unspeakable
Arkansas lawmaker wants to make it a felony to identify makers of its execution drugs.
Sarah Lustbader March 7, 2019
Legislative roundup, March 7 edition
March 7, 2019
Reformers Target Life Imprisonment and Sentences of Life Without Parole
Vermont and Massachusetts legislation would abolish life without parole sentences, while other states consider that reform for minors.
Daniel Nichanian February 28, 2019
“The Commonwealth’s Attorney Has a Very Holistic Role”: An interview with Virginia Candidate Parisa Dehghani-Tafti
Parisa Dehghani-Tafti, a candidate for prosecutor, explains how she wants to fight mass incarceration in Arlington.
Daniel Nichanian February 22, 2019
Bill to Abolish the Death Penalty Fails in Wyoming
Daniel Nichanian February 21, 2019
Tennessee Republicans Try to Strip Nashville Police Oversight Board of Its Subpoena Power
Nashville organizers fight state bill with “Don’t Play Where You’re Not Welcome” campaign targeting college athletic recruits
Vaidya Gullapalli February 8, 2019
Prosecutors Announce New Marijuana Policy in Illinois, Maryland, and Missouri
In St. Louis, Chicago, and Baltimore, prosecutors have announced a policy of not prosecuting marijuana possession or have launched a new expungement program.
Daniel Nichanian February 7, 2019
Massachusetts Lawmakers Consider Restoring Voting Rights, but Organizers Are Not Waiting
Advocates pursue many fronts to push for incarcerated individuals to have electoral voice, two decades Massachusetts restricted the franchise.
Daniel Nichanian February 7, 2019
Cory Booker and the Urgency of Rethinking Long Sentences and Approaches to Violence
As a presidential candidate, will Cory Booker continue talking about second chances for people convicted of violent crimes?
Vaidya Gullapalli February 6, 2019
Democratic Primary to Replace Northampton DA John Morganelli Takes Form
The county's first deputy DA and chief public defender are running in the May 21 primary.
Daniel Nichanian January 31, 2019
Policing Practices in Jacksonville: an Interview
Daniel Nichanian January 25, 2019
Advocates Make Case for How Marijuana Legalization Should Tackle Equity
State advocates demand that politicians be more attentive to confronting the harm that marijuana prohibition has caused.
Daniel Nichanian January 25, 2019
New York City Plan for Overdose Prevention Centers Runs into Resistance by Some Officials
In the face of an overdose epidemic, Bronx DA Darcel Clark rejects a harm reduction strategy and Governor Cuomo chooses inaction.
Vaidya Gullapalli January 23, 2019
New York Can Do More Than Adopt Texas’s Discovery Laws
Sarah Lustbader January 18, 2019
New Mexico Legislation Would Eliminate Felony Disenfranchisement
Can New Mexico provide a new model for ambitious voting-rights reform?
Daniel Nichanian January 10, 2019
In Northwest Arkansas, Activists Organize Against ICE’s 287(g) Program
Two counties in northwest Arkansas joined the 287(g) program with ICE more than a decade ago. A coalition of local groups is organizing to end that cooperation.
Daniel Nichanian January 10, 2019
Plenty of Prosecutors and Sheriffs Will Be Elected in 2019, Too
Aout 500 prosecutors and sheriffs will be elected in 2019, nearly all in Louisiana, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, and Virginia.
Daniel Nichanian January 4, 2019
Will Anyone Run for District Attorney in Wisconsin?
The majority of Wisconsin counties have held no contested DA election this decade.
Daniel Nichanian December 13, 2018
What Does it Mean to Take Politics Out of Prosecution?
Daniel Nichanian December 13, 2018
North Carolina's Two Largest Counties Quit ICE Program. Will a Third Follow?
Two large North Carolina counties quit ICE's 287(g) program this month.
Daniel Nichanian December 13, 2018
Cyntoia Brown and an Effort to End Life Imprisonment
Vaidya Gullapalli December 12, 2018
Jeff Sessions Is Gone, but There Is No Cause to Rejoice
Vaidya Gullapalli December 11, 2018
How Do New Jersey Counties Still Partner with ICE?
New Jersey attorney general limits local cooperation with ICE, postpones some decisions.
Daniel Nichanian December 6, 2018
In the Wake of Amendment 4: Spotlight on Disenfranchisement in Kentucky
"What kind of state is Kentucky, truly?" asked an organizer. "What kind of democracy, if you take away folks, Black and brown folks?"
Daniel Nichanian December 6, 2018
Should Public Agents Resist Injustice Within the Justice System?
If Border Patrol agents should refuse to tear gas children at the border, should prosecutors, police, and judges not refuse some of their duties too?
Sarah Lustbader November 30, 2018
Three Questions to Michael Conlon
Daniel Nichanian November 29, 2018
In the Wake of Amendment 4: Spotlight on Disenfranchisement in Mississippi
Mississippi has inherited the dubious distinction of being the state that disenfranchises the highest share of its residents.
Daniel Nichanian November 29, 2018
How Medicaid Expansion and Criminal Justice Reform Boosted Each Other in 2018
In Georgia, Idaho, and Nebraska, advocates connected the dots between access to care, drug addiction, and mass incarceration.
Daniel Nichanian November 29, 2018
New York Democrats Won Big. Will They Deliver Big Change?
Vaidya Gullapalli November 20, 2018
New Hampshire Inches Closer to Abolishing the Death Penalty
Daniel Nichanian November 15, 2018
Efforts to Legalize Marijuana Move Forward
Daniel Nichanian November 9, 2018
Massive Turnout Turns Important Texas Courts Blue
Vaidya Gullapalli November 8, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Initiative 940, Washington State
Sarah Lustbader November 6, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Attorney General of Florida
Daniel Nichanian November 1, 2018
2018 Election Preview: District Attorney of Dallas County
Marijuana prosecutions and bail reform at the forefront of Dallas DA race.
Daniel Nichanian October 25, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Attorney General of Kansas
Daniel Nichanian October 25, 2018
Colorado Votes on Abolishing Its Clause Authorizing Slavery
People laughed when Kanye called for abolishing the "trap door" in the 13th Amendment. Now Coloradans are voting on theirs.
Sarah Lustbader October 24, 2018
On Marijuana, Four States Are Holding Six Referendums
Daniel Nichanian October 18, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Measure 105, Oregon
Daniel Nichanian October 18, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Amendment 2, Louisiana
Daniel Nichanian October 18, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Amendment 4, Florida
Daniel Nichanian October 18, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Amendment 11, Florida
Daniel Nichanian October 18, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Prosecutor of King County, Washington
Daniel Nichanian September 28, 2018
2018 Election Preview: D.A. of Berkshire County, Massachusetts
Daniel Nichanian September 27, 2018
2018 Election Preview: U.S. Senator from Texas
September 27, 2018
Ted Cruz & Beto O'Rourke debate policing practices: Sept. 21, 2018
September 22, 2018
7 progressives Defeat New York Senators. What’s Next in Albany?
Alessandra Biaggi and Zellnor Myrie explain the change they want to bring.
Daniel Nichanian September 20, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Governor of Maryland
Daniel Nichanian September 20, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Sheriff of Ulster County, New York
Daniel Nichanian September 20, 2018
Boston DA Nominee Embraces Next Frontier of Criminal Justice Reforms: Declining Cases
Many reform advocates believe that declining to prosecute cases is an effective way for prosecutors to shrink the system and break cycles of incarceration that disproportionately ensnare people of color.
Sarah Lustbader September 14, 2018
Attorney General Race Could Reshape Prosecution in Delaware
Daniel Nichanian September 13, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Governor of New York
Daniel Nichanian September 4, 2018
2018 Election Preview: Governor of Florida
Daniel Nichanian August 30, 2018
2018 Election: Oklahoma Legalizes Medical Marijuana
Daniel Nichanian August 16, 2018
Sparse Competition in 2018 Prosecutorial Elections
An analysis of California, Minnesota, Oklahoma, and Utah in the 2018 midterms
Daniel Nichanian July 10, 2018