Progressive Prosecutors Face Growing Scrutiny and Ouster Across the U.S.

Philadelphia District Attorney Larry Krasner is facing potential criminal prosecution, a federal judge having referred him for investigation over alleged perjury and other offenses related to his office's 2022 effort to overturn a murder conviction. This development marks the latest challenge for progressive prosecutors across the United States who have championed reforms in the criminal justice system.

Krasner, one of the earliest "progressive prosecutors" to take office, has been re-elected twice despite a significant increase in his city's homicide rate. The referral for prosecution follows a pattern of scrutiny faced by similar officials nationwide.

Notable departures and controversies include former Baltimore State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who was convicted of perjury related to financial fraud after pioneering policies that reduced prosecution for low-level offenses and led to the release of Adnan Syed. Boston DA Rachael Rollins, who created a list of offenses her office would not prosecute, resigned from her subsequent role as Massachusetts U.S. Attorney due to ethics violations.

In 2022, San Francisco voters recalled District Attorney Chesa Boudin, and in 2024, Portland, Oregon, voters ousted DA Mike Schmidt. St. Louis DA Kim Gardner resigned in 2023 amidst efforts by the state's attorney general to remove her, with her successor reportedly doubling the number of cases charged.

Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty in Minnesota declined to seek re-election after facing controversy over policies that critics argued were race-based and lenient on violent offenders. Chicago State's Attorney Kim Foxx opted not to run for re-election in 2024 amid criticism of her policies and the handling of the Jussie Smollett case. Los Angeles DA George Gascón lost his re-election bid in 2024.

Despite these ousters, some progressive prosecutors remain in office. Austin, Texas, DA Jose Garza won re-election in 2024, though he had previously pursued felony charges against officers and considered charges against those involved in a shooting. In northern Virginia, Fairfax County Commonwealth's Attorney Steve Descano has implemented policies that critics argue have led to reduced sentences for illegal immigrant criminals and a lenient approach to violent offenders, a situation linked to the murder of Stephanie Minter by an alleged illegal immigrant.

Legislative actions in some states also reflect a pushback against reformist policies. New York's legislature has passed laws that critics contend contribute to prison populations, and the state's Parole Board appointments have faced criticism. California voters, however, overwhelmingly passed Proposition 36 in 2024, tightening some sentencing laws despite opposition from Governor Gavin Newsom and the Democratic establishment.

The ongoing debate highlights a broader struggle over public safety priorities and the effectiveness of reform-minded approaches to criminal justice in American cities.