In a surprising turn of events, Los Angeles County Judge Robert Draper lost his reelection bid, marking a rare defeat for an incumbent in the judicial landscape. With a combination of misconduct allegations and health issues trailing him, Draper faced Deputy District Attorney Tal Khan Valbuena, who emerged victorious with over 56% of the vote during the June 2 primary election.
At 84 years old, Draper garnered approximately 43% of votes as reported by the latest election results. The official certification from the California Secretary of State is still pending, adding a layer of uncertainty to the electoral outcome.
Expressing gratitude, Khan Valbuena stated, “I am deeply humbled by the trust that voters have placed in me.” He emphasized his commitment to earn the public’s trust through diligent work and an unwavering dedication to justice. Valbuena, a notable figure in the Hollywood mental health court and a gay Muslim refugee from Pakistan, articulated his journey as living the American dream, illustrating his desire to honor that experience by serving on the bench. His formal assumption of the role is expected this January.
The Controversy Surrounding Draper
Judge Draper’s reelection bid was marred by controversy, compounded by serious allegations of misconduct. Earlier this year, the state’s Commission on Judicial Performance filed charges against him, citing instances of sexual harassment and inappropriate comments, including troubling behavior towards his colleagues.
One alarming incident involved Draper inappropriately stroking a female lawyer’s hair while making irrelevant remarks to another attorney about significant aspects of Black history and relevant social movements. These allegations contributed heavily to the charged atmosphere of the campaign.
Judicial elections in California usually fly under the radar, but Draper’s race, alongside another election in L.A. County, surfaced claims of candidates being unfit for their roles, threats exchanged, and discussions around efforts by sitting judges to safeguard their positions. Draper vehemently rejected all allegations of wrongdoing, likening the Commission’s actions to a lack of due process reminiscent of oppressive regimes.
Despite the election results, Draper’s future on the bench remains uncertain. He still faces potential removal from his position before his term concludes on January 4, depending on the outcome of the allegations lodged against him. Additionally, health concerns loomed over his candidacy, with reports indicating that he had spent the last three years in limited judicial capacity, leading some figures to question his fitness for the role. Draper had previously disclosed a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease yet maintained that he was capable of fulfilling his judicial duties.
Having been appointed as a judge in 2012 by former California Governor Jerry Brown, Draper’s career has now taken an unexpected and potentially pivotal turn.
