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  • The Daily Brief: Hochman Faces Criticism Over Language, Trump Cabinet Shakeup, and more.

The Daily Brief: Hochman Faces Criticism Over Language, Trump Cabinet Shakeup, and more.

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Good Afternoon! It’s Thursday, May 1

Some parts of Los Angeles saw light rain on Thursday with high temperatures hitting 70°, tomorrow looks to be much sunnier with highs inching up to a projected 73°

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Damian Dovarganes via AP Photos

L.A. D.A. Nathan Hochman Faces Backlash Over Politicized Justice Approach

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman is drawing criticism for a series of controversial moves that critics say politicize the justice system. From defending the use of dehumanizing language in court to reviving the death penalty and allegedly retaliating against staff, Hochman’s recent actions have alarmed civil rights advocates and legal experts alike. Even families in high-profile cases like that of the Menendez brothers claim they’ve been denied victim services for opposing his stance—raising serious ethical concerns.

AP Photo

Trump Appoints Rubio as Acting National Security Adviser, Nominates Waltz for U.N. Ambassador

In the first major staffing change of his new term, President Donald Trump has named Secretary of State Marco Rubio as acting national security adviser, replacing Mike Waltz—who is now his nominee for U.N. ambassador. The move comes weeks after a controversial Signal chat incident involving Waltz and signals a shift in the administration’s foreign policy leadership. Trump cited Waltz’s military and congressional service in the nomination, though his confirmation may face scrutiny.

One Night, Two Fires, and the Call That Changed Everything

On the eve of his first red carpet premiere, television creator Tim Walsh was forced to evacuate his Pasadena home as two wildfires closed in on the neighborhood he and his wife had fought decades to build a life in. What followed was a harrowing night of survival, a canceled premiere, and—just as the smoke began to settle—a life-changing phone call from Dick Wolf. In this gripping personal essay, Walsh reflects on the long road from incarceration to Hollywood success, and the fire—both literal and metaphorical—that shaped his journey.

Valley Murders of Two Jewish Men Spark Fear and FBI Involvement

Two Israeli men were found murdered in separate incidents on Saturday in Los Angeles’ San Fernando Valley, prompting concern within the Jewish community. Businessman Alexander Modebadze, 47, was killed in Woodland Hills; three suspects were arrested by the LAPD and FBI. Hours later, Meni Hidhra—brother of a senior Israeli prison official—was found dead in Valley Village. While the cases appear unrelated, the back-to-back killings have left residents alarmed amid a documented rise in antisemitic incidents.

BeachLife Festival Returns to Redondo Beach with Major Headliners and Culinary Stars

The South Bay’s biggest music event is back this weekend as BeachLife Festival 2025 takes over Redondo Beach with a stacked lineup featuring Lenny Kravitz, Alanis Morissette, Sublime, the Pretenders, Jackson Browne, and more. Spread across four stages, the three-day fest also includes a high-end tasting experience by Michelin-starred chef Curtis Stone. For those skipping the crowds, a free livestream benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will be available online.

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