Todd Spitzer

Todd Spitzer is an American attorney and politician who served as a member of the California State Assembly, representing the 71st district from 2002 to 2008. A member of the Republican Party, Spitzer has had a diverse career in public service, including roles as a deputy district attorney and as a member of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. Following his legislative service, he continued his career in law and politics, eventually being elected as the district attorney of Orange County in 2018.

Early life and career

Todd Spitzer was born on November 26, 1960, in Whittier, California, to parents Phyllis Ann Kirschenbaum and Leonard Spitzer. He has a sister, Susan, who also pursued a career in law. Spitzer's early involvement in the performing arts is notable; he participated in leading roles in school productions during his time at Schurr High School, including performances in the musicals "Hello, Dolly!" and "Li'l Abner."

Spitzer pursued higher education at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned a bachelor's degree in 1982. Following his undergraduate studies, he completed a fellowship at the California State Senate, which provided him with early exposure to the legislative process. He then worked as an English teacher at Theodore Roosevelt High School in the Los Angeles Unified School District during the 1984-1985 academic year.

In 1989, Spitzer completed his graduate education, obtaining a master's degree in public policy from the University of California, Berkeley, as well as a Juris Doctor from the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. While at Hastings, he received the George Moscone Fellowship, awarded to law students committed to public service.

Spitzer began his professional career in the legal field by joining the Orange County District Attorney's office in 1990 as a deputy district attorney, a position he held until 1996. During this time, he also served as a volunteer reserve police officer with the Los Angeles Police Department from 1990 to 2000. His initial foray into elected office came in 1992 when he was elected as a trustee to the Brea Olinda School Board, serving until 1996. During his tenure, he investigated a grading scandal at Brea Olinda High School, which involved allegations of grade alterations by a former registrar.

Legislative service

In 2002, Spitzer transitioned to state politics by running for a seat in the California State Assembly, representing the 71st assembly district. He faced a challenge from Democratic candidate Bea Foster, a teacher from Santa Ana. After successfully winning the election, Spitzer was sworn into the State Assembly on December 2, 2002. During his time in the Assembly, he served on the judiciary and public safety committees, where he focused on issues related to law enforcement and public safety.

One of Spitzer's notable legislative achievements was his co-authorship of Megan's Law in April 2004, which aimed to make the database of registered sex offenders accessible to the public via the Internet. This law was part of a broader effort to enhance public awareness and safety regarding sex offenders in California. Spitzer was re-elected in November 2004, defeating Bea Foster again with a significant margin.

In 2006, he played a key role as co-chair of the High Risk Sex Offender Task Force, which was established by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to review and improve the laws governing the monitoring of high-risk sex offenders in California. Additionally, he was an advocate for the passage of Proposition 83, also known as Jessica's Law, which aimed to strengthen laws against sexual predators.

Spitzer's legislative efforts extended to victims' rights as well. He was instrumental in the development of Marsy's Law, a constitutional amendment designed to expand the legal rights of crime victims in California. This initiative was passed in 2008, and Spitzer served as the spokesperson and campaign manager for its successful campaign.

Policy focus and district

During his tenure in the California State Assembly, Spitzer's policy focus was primarily centered around public safety, victims' rights, and law enforcement reform. His work on Megan's Law and Marsy's Law reflects a commitment to enhancing protections for vulnerable populations and ensuring accountability within the justice system. He was also involved in legislative discussions regarding the monitoring of sex offenders, emphasizing the need for public awareness and safety.

Spitzer represented California's 71st State Assembly district, which encompasses parts of Orange County. The district is characterized by a diverse population and a mix of urban and suburban communities. As an assemblyman, Spitzer was attuned to the needs and concerns of his constituents, advocating for policies that aimed to improve public safety and community welfare.

After completing his term in the State Assembly in 2008, Spitzer returned to the Orange County District Attorney's office, where he was appointed as assistant district attorney. However, his tenure in this role was cut short when he was dismissed in 2010 due to allegations of inappropriate behavior in the workplace. Despite this setback, Spitzer continued his involvement in public service and politics.

In 2018, he was elected as the district attorney of Orange County, defeating the incumbent Tony Rackauckas. His election marked a significant return to public office, and he has since been involved in various initiatives aimed at reforming the criminal justice system in the county. In 2024, he served as the Orange County chair for Proposition 36, a statewide initiative to modify Proposition 47 concerning drug and theft offenses, which was approved by voters.

Spitzer's career reflects a trajectory marked by significant involvement in public service, law, and legislative advocacy, with a focus on issues that impact community safety and the rights of victims. His work in the California State Assembly and subsequent roles in law enforcement and public office demonstrate a commitment to public service and the pursuit of legal reforms in California.