E51: Huntington Beach City Attorney Michael Gates on Local Control and Voter ID

This week, host Troy Edgar met with Surf City USA’s City Attorney Michael Gates, in our L.A. studio. Michael was elected to City Attorney in 2014 and has been a recognized force in his community and across California on key issues of local control and voter ID.

In this episode, Michael delves into his career trajectory and aspirations, contemplating a potential future shift toward the federal judiciary. He candidly voices concerns about California's leadership direction, particularly in addressing pressing issues like homelessness and crime. Emphasizing the necessity for robust law enforcement and a reevaluation of priorities to serve communities better, Gates advocates for stronger adherence to existing laws.

Reflecting on his tenure since 2014, he outlines the pivotal divisions within his office—civil litigation, community prosecution, and research and advisory—underscoring the significance of local control for fostering accountability and democracy. Despite the challenges, Gates remains optimistic about California's future.