Raul Claros, a candidate for Los Angeles City Council, is setting up his campaign in the center of MacArthur Park—a location some locals deem the city’s biggest disgrace.
Unis Hernandez, Claros’ opponent in District 1, revealed on Friday that he would park his 30-foot RV in the park for the weekend.
“This shows my commitment,” Claros explained to the California Post. “If this helps people understand the seriousness of the situation, I want to be right here in MacArthur Park.”
This decision coincided with another arrest by federal authorities as part of an ongoing effort to address crime in and around the park.
The FBI, along with the Drug Enforcement Administration and LAPD, have been focused on what prosecutors call an open-air drug market.
Yet, according to Claros, the situation for residents hasn’t improved. “After these kinds of operations, everything still feels the same,” he noted. “The problems don’t disappear overnight.”
For years, local residents and business owners have expressed distress over drug issues, violence, gang activity, and worsening conditions surrounding the once-popular park.
In the District 1 election, MacArthur Park is a central theme, with incumbent Council member Eunice Hernandez facing rising criticism regarding the area’s decline during her tenure.
Claros insists that his RV stay isn’t merely a campaign stunt. “When a community is struggling, leaders need to step up,” he remarked.
He intends for his weekend in the park to shed light on the ongoing issues faced by residents and businesses.
The candidates have targeted MacArthur Park as it embodies the challenges many feel exist within City Hall.
“I’ve spoken to many residents and business owners who feel utterly neglected,” Claros said. “People have lost hope that anything will truly change.”
He emphasizes that revitalizing MacArthur Park would be among his top priorities if elected.
His plan includes setting up a command center in the park to streamline efforts from city departments, law enforcement, outreach workers, and recreational staff to improve the area.
“We need to start at MacArthur Park,” he declared. “Then we can expand our efforts into nearby areas. A total reset is essential.”
This RV stop kicks off a five-day campaign tour across City Council District 1. Claros acknowledged the frustrations of the community, saying, “People here are tired and fed up. I want them to know there are those who will fight for this community.”
