LOS ANGELES (KABC) — Los Angeles Councilman Kevin de León acknowledged his defeat in the District 14 election on Friday against his opponent Ysabel Jurado.
“Although the results of these elections were not in our favor, I respect the voters’ decision and our democratic process,” de León said in a statement. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together – housing more people than any other district, creating new parks and playgrounds, and securing historic investments to elevate our communities that will be felt for years to come.”
De León congratulated Jurado and wished him success. Jurado had declared victory over De León on Thursday.
“I’m here to help and make a smooth transition with your incoming team,” de León said. “The future of our district is bright, and I remain committed to continuing the fight for equity, opportunity and dignity for all Angelenos.”
The two candidates were vying to represent a district that includes downtown Los Angeles, Boyle Heights, Lincoln Heights, El Sereno and northeast Los Angeles.
De León had to overcome the political damage suffered when he was heard participating in a secretly recorded conversation in 2021 in which crude and racist language was used.
At his election night rally, the councilman said he was facing challenges following the leak of the recording, and that he refused to resign, as many had asked him to do.
Jurado, a tenant rights attorney, had a lead of 56.25% – 43.75%, 36,019 – 28,019, according to figures released Friday by the Los Angeles County Registrar.
It’s unclear how many ballots remain to be counted in the district. Mail-in votes postmarked by Election Day will also be accepted for up to a week.
Jurado becomes the first woman to represent the district and the first person of Filipino descent on the Los Angeles City Council.
City News Service contributed to this report.
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