LOS ANGELES — In the heart of Los Angeles, emotions have flared as District 14 LA City Council candidates Ysabel Jurado and incumbent Kevin de León face off, offering sharply contrasting visions for a community grappling with issues of public safety, policing, and trust.

For Anahí Díaz, Jurado’s recent comment at a public event—where she quoted lyrics saying, “f--- the police” — hit a nerve.

“It’s a stab in the heart,” she shared, recalling the tragic loss of her brother, LAPD officer Juan Díaz, who was killed in the district Jurado hopes to represent. “My brother loved his city, his community,” Díaz said, reflecting on the deep connection her family has with local law enforcement.

Jurado, a tenant rights attorney, later explained that the quote was taken from a song and meant to shed light on the complex relationship between the community and police. 

“The lyrics reflect a community that wants safety without feeling threatened by police,” she clarified. “We need to focus on addressing systemic issues in policing and how communities can feel safe despite under-funded services.”

Jurado’s candidacy presents a progressive alternative in a traditionally conservative district, though she faces a tough battle against de León. The incumbent has weathered his own controversies, including fallout from leaked audio of racially charged comments two years ago and recent accusations of campaign finance violations.

“I apologized, and I’ve been working with the community to move forward together,” de León said in his defense.

Political analyst Luis Alvarado observes a distinct divide within the district.

“There’s nobody in the middle,” he noted. “You either align with socialist, liberal progressives or with staunch conservative Democrats.”

Longtime district resident Antonio Gallo, a restaurant owner, says he’s tired of political sparring and just wants solutions.

“I have 35 employees who rely on this business to support their families,” he said.

Crime and job stability top his concerns, reflecting broader anxieties voiced by his patrons.

“Crime is their number one issue, and they want stable, affordable jobs to support their families,” he added.

The candidates’ positions on public safety underscore their ideological divide. Jurado advocates for alternative community safety programs, though she clarifies she isn’t calling for police abolition. De León, meanwhile, has committed to bolstering police presence. 

“Folks want police,” he stated. “They want public safety, officers patrolling their streets.”

As election day nears, voters like Díaz and Gallo remain hopeful for a meaningful change that will heal divides and address the district’s most pressing needs.