The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles County, an Inter-League Organization, and constituent Local Leagues as available in communities holding elections on April 11, 2006 and asked of all candidates for this office.

See below for questions on Public Safety, City Election Schedule

Click on a name for other candidate information.   See also more information about this contest.

Answer from Robert E. Shannon:

Enhance the efficiency of local government, in order to provide financial support for more police officers and for the level of training to achieve the highest level of efficiency and professionalism.

Answer from Michael J. "Mike" Emling:

In the long run, we need to make better people. Support better education and youth organizations. Support job training. Support businesses that provide jobs. In the short run, support a well trained and professional police force with adequate personnel.

Answer from Michael J. "Mike" Emling:

There are two questions there. One is, whether it makes sense to have the primary. The other is, does it make sense to do it every two years.

First off, I think the primary concept is fine. That way, you have a run-off right away in June if you need one.

I am not so sure about doing it every two years instead of every four years. There is some advantage to staggering council terms in that it the practice provides continuity. There is no danger of having all new people at one time. However, I really wonder whether coupling the mayoral election with the odd numbered districts does not tend to disenfranchise the even numbered districts. Even numbered districts have less incentive to get out and vote for mayor because they are not electing a council person. Also, they have less incentive to get out and vote for council because they do not have the excitement of a mayoral race. I would like to see someone do the math on that.

Answer from Robert E. Shannon:

I favor a free standing Long Beach primary, because it permits the citizens to focus on important local issues.

The order of the candidates is random and changes daily.