As the 2026 election cycle heats up, voters in Los Angeles are sounding off about one issue they care about more than most: the struggling entertainment industry. It’s not just about jobs for actors and writers; it’s about the city’s identity and a way of life.
Films and TV shows fleeing to cheaper locales
For decades, Hollywood has been the hub of the American entertainment industry, with films and TV shows shot in its studios and backlots. But increasingly, productions are packing up and moving to cheaper states and countries. It’s not just a matter of saving money; it’s about finding places where productions can thrive without the logistical and bureaucratic headaches that come with filming in Los Angeles.
According to a recent survey, 75% of Angelenos believe that restoring Hollywood as a major film and TV production center is an important issue in the 2026 election cycle. They’re not just concerned about the economic benefits of keeping productions in the city – they’re worried about the impact on the local culture and the sense of community that comes with being a hub of creativity and innovation.
What this means: Candidates will have to address industry’s decline
As election season gets underway, candidates will have to take a stand on this issue. What does it mean for the city, and what can be done to reverse the trend? For starters, city officials will have to figure out ways to make it easier and more attractive for productions to stay in LA – maybe by providing more incentives, streamlining permits, or investing in infrastructure.
But it’s not just about the city’s economic fortunes; it’s about the people who call LA home. When a production leaves, it’s not just jobs that disappear – it’s a piece of the city’s identity. Voters want a candidate who can restore Hollywood, not just as a production center, but as a vibrant and thriving community that reflects the best of LA’s creativity and energy.
