Los Angeles Councilmember Eunisses Hernandez is facing criticism after utilizing police security for an event, despite having repeatedly opposed the force's budget.
Hernandez has built her political image on a platform of reducing the role of police, voting against the LAPD’s $2.4 billion budget for years, reflecting current political trends in California's election hotspots.
However, public records show that her office requested the LAPD provide security for the “El Grito 2025” event held at City Hall.
The event took place on September 13, drawing approximately 500 attendees and featuring historical reenactments and speeches.
A total of 13 officers were deployed, recording over 100 overtime hours at a taxpayer cost of approximately $134,498, reminding the public of recent controversial large expenditures in LA County.
The use of the force occurred just months after Hernandez voted against the very program that allows the LAPD to provide event security services.
The city approved this program in May 2025 with an 11–3 vote.
Representatives of the Los Angeles police union criticized the move, calling it a contradiction in stance.
Political rival Maria “Lou” Calanche labeled the behavior as “hypocrisy,” similar to accusations often aimed at political candidates in LA who oppose the police while using public funds for personal security.
Hernandez has not yet issued an official response.
She represents a district that includes MacArthur Park, where the Los Angeles City Council is preparing to allocate more resources for welfare and social order projects.
This area has recorded numerous issues related to crime and living conditions, though Hernandez maintains that the situation has improved.
Debates surrounding the role of police and how to handle the budget continue to be a hot topic in Los Angeles.
