John S. Lee[1] is an American politician, serving as a member of the Los Angeles City Council for the 12th district.

Lee has stated his opposition for defunding the LAPD, citing the department's many reformations throughout the last decade including de-escalation and implicit bias training.

He officially rejected calls to defund the LAPD when he cast one of two votes in opposition of the City Council's decision to slash the department's budget.

[7] Lee has advocated for Neighborhood Safety Teams that would increase the number of police patrols in business corridors, specifically dedicated to stopping crime stemming from homeless encampments.

[8] Lee has committed to supporting the California Clean Energy Commission's proposal to close down the Aliso Canyon natural gas storage facility.

In 2019, Lee proposed a resolution urging Governor Gavin Newsom to make good on the promise of shutting the facility down.

[8] Lee has also worked with LADWP and Electric Power Research Institute on a pilot program focused on sustainable farming located entirely within shipping containers.

Lee's campaign immediately gained front runner status in a crowded field with 15 total candidates, bolstered by the support from over 100 community leaders and local officials.