Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
Small Business Owner
Law Enforcement Contributions:
None as of 4/16/26
Background:
Paula Swift is a small business owner and CEO of her own consulting firm. She partners with government agencies, schools, small businesses, and community organizations to address inequities, improve operations, and expand access to essential resources. She names the biggest passion on her website being “long-standing advocacy for foster youth and domestic violence survivors.”
Public Safety Platform:
On her campaign website, Swift states she “will fight to keep our families and neighborhoods safe by ensuring first responders have the resources they need while investing in the prevention and community partnerships that stop problems before they start.” While she names wanting to ensure law enforcement has the resources they need, she also states she wants to “keep communities safer by strengthening re-entry programs” in her Public Safety Platform.
While Swift does not have a very clear vision of justice reform, IJ Action recommends that voters support her as the Harm Reduction candidate given the tough-on-crime rhetoric and incredibly bad voting record of the incumbent.
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
California Assemblyman/Businessman
Law Enforcement Contributions:
Background:
Assemblymember Ta was first elected to the State Assembly in 2022. Prior to that he served on the Westminster City Council and Mayor.
Since joining the Assembly, he has not been a supporter of justice reform, earning an “F” on our Legislative Scorecard for all three years that we have graded state legislators.
Public Safety Platform:
Assemblymember Ta vocally supports law enforcement and opposes justice reform stating on his website: “We’ve all seen the news. Smash and grabs happening every day. Violent crimes occurring in our neighborhoods. Police units stretched thin due to Defund the Police budget cuts. We’ve got to end the madness and support our law enforcement officers. First, I support ending policies that allow dangerous criminals to be let out of jail early or to not be prosecuted at all. Second, I support fully funding police departments to boost safety and crime deterrence. Third, I will support law enforcement efforts to enforce our immigration laws and I will oppose Sanctuary Cities.”
Ta is endorsed by Santa Ana Police Officers Association.
Website:
https://www.trita4assembly.com/
