Incumbent – Grade C

Political Party:

Democrat

Ballot Designation:

 Member of the State Assembly

Law Enforcement Contributions:

California Correctional Peace Officers Association (CCPOA PAC)
National Peace Officers & Firefighters Benefit Association
Huntington Beach Police Officers Association PAC
Long Beach Police Officers Association PAC
Los Angeles Police Protective League PAC
California Association of Highway Patrolmen

Background:

Assemblymember Gipson was first elected to the State Assembly in 2014. Prior to that he served on the Carson City Council and worked as a police officer for many years.

Public Safety Platform:

As a former police officer, Assemblymember Gipson is staunchly pro-police and has a mixed voting record on justice reform measures. This session, Assemblymember Gipson did not vote for AB 2709, an IJ Action-supported bill which would have strengthened visitation rights, and was one of only two Legislative Black Caucus members to support AB 1990, a harmful bill that would have authorized physical custody for petty shoplifting. However, in 2020 he voted yes on ACA 6, which became Prop 17 and restored voting rights to people on parole and was a vocal supporter of that measure. Gipson’s voting record was much worse this year, dropping from an “A” in 2023 to a “C” in 2024.

His website outlines the following statement on public safety issues: “As a former local police officer, I know that ensuring the safety of our families and neighborhoods is of utmost importance. I believe our local law enforcement needs to be supported and I will continue to work to provide the necessary resources to tackle crime, in addition to supporting programs that get kids off the streets and combat crime.” He has received significant campaign contributions from law enforcement associations.

Due to his inconsistent voting record and strong support from law enforcement, IJ Action does not have a recommendation in this race.

Website:

https://www.mikegipson.net/

Political Party:

Republican

Ballot Designation:

 Public School Teacher

Law Enforcement Contributions:

The candidate has not reported any campaign funds as of 8/23/24

Background:

Little information about the candidate is readily available online.

Public Safety Platform:

Gutierrez does not have a campaign website or written platform, and little information about him is publicly available.

Website:

N/A