After losing his re-election bid, the outgoing LA DA expresses his disappointment and heartbreak about America's shift.

Gascón, the Los Angeles District Attorney, expressed his disappointment over America's shift and wished Hochman well after losing his re-election bid on Wednesday.

"Gascón stated that the rightward shift in America last night is heartbreaking. Despite the challenges ahead, Democrats must remain committed to their cause. He called Hochman to wish him well as the new district attorney of Los Angeles County. Gascón is proud of the progress made over the past four years and grateful to the communities that have been the driving force behind criminal justice reform."

Hochman, a former federal prosecutor, ran as a "hard middle" candidate, rejecting several of Gascón's liberal policies, which Hochman believed led to increased crime and a lack of consequences for juvenile offenders.

"The voters of Los Angeles County have expressed their dissatisfaction with DA Gascon's pro-criminal extreme policies and are eager for a safer future. As DA, I am committed to ensuring the safety of all individuals, regardless of their voting preferences," Hochman stated in a Planet Chronicle Digital interview.

Gascón called Hochman Wednesday morning to concede the race and pledged to collaborate with him on a seamless transition, stating "It was a positive call."

The increase in violent crime from 2021-2022 was a significant concern during the election cycle, with crime being considered a top issue.

Despite Gascón's previous service as a police officer, Hochman frequently highlighted rising violent crime nationwide during debates and gained the backing of local police unions.

Gascón has faced two recall attempts and is currently being sued by several organizations, including the union representing his office's prosecutors, for withholding information in violation of the California Public Records Act.

Gascón is facing about two dozen retaliation lawsuits from prosecutors in his office who have previously blown the whistle on his actions.

Last year, a deputy district attorney received a $1.5 million settlement after filing a lawsuit for retaliation. Deputy DA Shawn Randolph claimed she was moved to a less desirable position following her objections to certain Gascón policies that may have breached the rights of victims under Marsy's Law.

Planet Chronicle Digital's Stephen Sorace and Michael Ruiz contributed to this report.