Villanueva Faces Off Against Luna in the Emerging LA County Primary Race

LOS ANGELES – The race for Los Angeles County’s top law enforcement position is intensifying as several candidates prepare to vie for the sheriff’s seat. Former Sheriff Alex Villanueva has officially entered the contest, challenging incumbent Robert Luna in what promises to be a high-stakes rematch.

As the filing deadline approaches for the June 2 primary elections, Villanueva is among eight candidates entering the sheriff’s race, which also includes contests for the Board of Supervisors and the Assessor’s office. The primary ballot is taking shape ahead of the closing of registrations for most county, state, and federal offices on March 6.

In his bid for reelection, Robert Luna highlights his record, noting significant reductions in crime: homicides have dropped by 25% and deputy use of force incidents have also decreased by 25% since he took office. Luna will face formidable challengers, including:

• Alex Villanueva: The former sheriff seeking to regain his position.
• Eric Strong: A retired division chief who previously placed third in the 2022 elections.
• Karla Carranza: A sheriff’s sergeant returning for another bid.
• Sonia Montejano: A former senior deputy recognized for her appearance on “Judge Judy.”

The elections will also see changes on the Board of Supervisors, where Supervisor Hilda Solis is termed out, potentially paving the way for State Senator María Elena Durazo to succeed her in a key district stretching from Hollywood to Pomona.

Supervisor Lindsey Horvath will also defend her seat against challengers, including Tonia Arey, who emphasizes accountability in her campaign following the recent Palisades Fire.

The timeline leading up to the primary is as follows:

• Jan 26 – Feb 4: Filing period for Superior Court judge positions.
• March 6: Primary filing deadline for most county, state, and federal offices.
• March 8: Extended deadline for offices with incumbents who failed to file.
• March 27: Release of the official list of qualified candidates by the Registrar-Recorder.
• June 2: Primary Election Day.
• November: General election for the top two finishers in each race.

Looking ahead, focus will shift to verifying signatures and finalizing the candidate list by March 27. Voters can expect a comprehensive ballot on June 2, which will include local races, gubernatorial primaries, and elections for all 52 congressional seats and the State Assembly. If no candidate in the county races for sheriff, assessor, or supervisor secures more than 50% of the vote, the top two will advance to a runoff in November.