Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell was sworn in on the job just under six months ago but has already led the department through transformative events like the January wildfires. 

Now, the city faces a daunting budget shortfall of $1 billion. As part of the budget proposed to close the gap, more than 400 civilian jobs at the LAPD could be eliminated. 

McDonnell recently joined “Inside the Issues” host Amrit Singh for a discussion on the budget deficit’s potential impact on public safety and the police force. 

“It is a very challenging time for all of us in Los Angeles and the region,” said McDonnell. “We are the largest part of the city budget, but 94% of our budget is personnel, so that’s people. And when you look at the cuts proposed, 403 civilian professional staff, that would be devastating if it goes through.”

McDonnell also spoke on the recent recruitment campaign launched by the LAPD as the city gears up to host high-profile events such as the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Summer Olympics. 

“It’s a great job. I can’t think of a job I would have rather done the last 44 years than being a police officer here,” McDonnell said. “The hope is that people will look at [the recruitment campaign] who are looking for a career where you get to exercise compassion all the time, go out there and get into situations where others are not able to handle, and be able to provide comfort and safety to people.”

Click the arrow above to watch the full interview.