Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Office 39 - Steve Napolitano

Candidate Profile:

Steve Napolitano is a seasoned public servant and attorney, with over 30 years of experience serving the people of Los Angeles County. He is a five-term Mayor and City Councilmember of Manhattan Beach, where he worked tirelessly to improve public safety, environmental quality, and local governance. In addition to his public service, Napolitano has served as a state-appointed parole attorney, representing inmates before the Board of Parole Hearings, advocating for second chances where deserved while ensuring public safety is a priority. He has also been an Administrative Hearing Officer for multiple cities and counties across California, handling cases that involve significant penalties and civil disputes, which gives him a broad understanding of the legal system from various perspectives.

Napolitano’s platform is built on his pragmatic decision-making skills, emphasizing fairness, respect, and justice for all parties involved. He believes that a judge should apply both consequences and compassion where necessary, ensuring that justice is served but also that people are given a chance to turn their lives around when appropriate. Napolitano’s diverse background in local government, law, and decision-making equips him with the unique ability to handle the complexities of cases that come before the Superior Court.

Why We Endorse Steve Napolitano:

Thrive LA PAC supports Steve Napolitano because he brings a fresh, practical perspective to the role of judge. His extensive experience in both public service and the legal system makes him uniquely qualified to handle the challenges of a Superior Court Judge. As a former Mayor and Councilmember, he understands the issues that matter most to our communities, from public safety to housing and infrastructure, and how they intersect with the law. His time as an Administrative Hearing Officer and a parole attorney has given him the experience to weigh complex cases, assess evidence, and make fair, informed decisions that balance accountability with opportunity for rehabilitation.

Napolitano’s commitment to public safety aligns closely with Thrive LA PAC’s values. He has consistently worked to ensure that communities are safe, and he understands the importance of holding offenders accountable while also providing pathways for reform when appropriate. His platform focuses on fairness and integrity, and he is committed to making the law work for everyone—whether it’s protecting victims or giving individuals a second chance when warranted. Napolitano’s pragmatic approach, combined with his deep understanding of the law and its impact on everyday life, makes him an ideal candidate for Los Angeles Superior Court.

In short, Napolitano will bring balanced leadership to the bench, rooted in his experience as a decision-maker in both legal and civic roles. We believe his track record of integrity, fairness, and respect will contribute greatly to the administration of justice in Los Angeles County.