Judge Pat Connolly Turns Back Election Challenge

Tuesday, June 16, 2026

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Judge Pat Connolly Turns Back Election Challenge

By a MetNews Staff Writer

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Pat Connolly has won reelection—though barely.

The latest returns available as of mid-day yesterday show the incumbent holding a lead with 835,605 votes in his favor, or 50.47%. Although Deputy District Attorney Paul A. Thompson is close, it appears that even if he grabs all of the uncounted ballots, Connolly will prevail.

The judge commented on Sunday:

“I just want to say thank you to all of my supporters: the legal community, defense, prosecutors and the bench, the unions and the press, and most, my family and friends. I am truly humbled and honored to be re-elected. I look forward to continuing my work protecting the rights of all thoughtfully, fairly, and independently.”

Then next update from the Registrar-Recorder’s Office on the tallies is scheduled for today after 4 p.m.

So far there has been no concession from Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Robert S. Draper who has lost of challenger Tal Valbuena, a deputy district attorney, who had 56.83% of the vote. Draper, who is doing chambers work, only, is the subject of Commission on Judicial Performance proceedings based on aberrant conduct.

A third challenged Los Angeles Superior Court judge, David Walgren, with 76.90% according to the latest count, was the top-vote-getter in the seven two-person contests. His opponent was a frequent election contestant, Dan Kapelovitz.

Heading for Nov. 3 run-offs are Deputy District Attorney Maria Lisa Ghobadi and Deputy Public Defender Rhonda Haymon; Deputy Public Defender Justin Allen Clayton and Deputy County Counsel Anna Slotky Reitano; Deputy Public Defender Anthony (A.J.) Bayne and attorney David DeJute; and Deputy Public Defenders Donna Tryfman and David Ross.