Assembly District 77
Harm Reduction:
Tasha Boerner (D) Incumbent Grade B
James Browne (R)
Assembly District 40
HARM REDUCTION
Pilar Schiavo (D)
Incumbent – Grade D
Political Party:
Democrat
Ballot Designation:
Assemblywoman
Law Enforcement Contributions:
Los Angeles Police Protective League PAC
California Correctional Peace Officers Association PAC
Background:
Assemblymember Schiavo was elected to the State Assembly in 2022, defeating Republican incumbent Suzette Valladares and effectively flipping the district from red to blue. Prior to joining the Assembly, she was a nurse advocate who worked with the California Nurses Association for 13 years, and co-founded an organization that provides meals and resources to houseless people in her community.
Public Safety Platform:
Assemblymember Schiavo does not have a written public safety platform, however, her voting record in the Legislature reflects a lack of support for justice reform issues. For example Schiavo voted for bills like AB 1990 and AB 1960, both strongly opposed by IJ Action, and did not vote for AB 2709, which would strengthen visitation rights. Assemblymember Schiavo earned an “F” in our Legislative Scorecard in 2023 and slightly improved to a “D” in 2024.
Despite her voting record however, Assemblymember Schiavo has been a collaborative partner with IJ Action and has been willing to listen to our concerns. This, and given the extremist views of her opponent and the strong possibility that Republicans could flip this seat, IJ Action recommends AD 40 voters support Assemblymember Schiavo as the harm reduction choice.
Website:
Political Party:
Republican
Ballot Designation:
Retired Deputy Sheriff
Law Enforcement Contributions:
Peace Officers Research Association of California (PORAC PAC)
Background:
Gipson has been a Sheriff’s Deputy with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department for 24 years.
Public Safety Platform:
Gipson’s platform calls for tougher sentencing and penalties for “convicted felons”, opposition to zero bail policies, repeal of Prop 47 and Prop 57, and enhanced penalties for human trafficking and drug crimes. He is endorsed by the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs, the Peace Officers Research Association, and many Republican elected officials in the region.
Website: