Riverside County Election: Judicial Race Shows Paradise Leading

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA— A Riverside County public safety executive held a firm lead Wednesday over two defense attorneys in the election for the only open judicial seat up for grabs in the countywide primary.

With votes still being counted, Michelle Paradise led the race for Riverside County Superior Court Judicial Seat No. 10 with 45.8%, followed by Andrea Garcia with 35.3% and Jennifer Loflin with 18.9%.

Paradise will be retiring in June as assistant county executive officer for public safety.

"My decision to run for judge comes after a lifetime of public service and a deep belief in the justice system," she said in announcing her campaign in March. "I grew up facing significant challenges and learned early on how important fairness, opportunity and accountability are in people's lives."

Since 2023, the candidate has worked as assistant county EO overseeing public safety. Prior to her stint at the Executive Office, Paradise served for seven years as assistant DA, preceded by a yearlong role as chief deputy district attorney and 18 years as a line prosecutor. During her tenure, she was assigned or accepted a wide variety of cases.

"I've seen the justice system from every angle," she said. "I still have a lot to give, and serving on the bench feels like the most meaningful way I can continue to give back."

She, Garcia and Loflin are seeking to fill the vacancy stemming from the retirement of Judge Harold Hopp at the Riverside Historic Courthouse.

In election literature, Garcia, a San Bernardino County deputy public defender, noted her travels abroad and exposure to international human rights issues have been influences in shaping her outlook on life. She emphasized her goal of enhancing "the public trust in the judicial system," citing close to "20 years of experience ... defending vulnerable individuals and promoting equal justice" as key attributes.

"(I) will work tirelessly to deliver impactful messages that resonate with our community and foster positive change," the attorney said.

She vowed to apply her "legal expertise to inspire trust and confidence in the judicial system, ensuring that everyone feels heard and supported."

The candidate noted some of her most rewarding career experiences included immigration law cases, "advocating for those facing deportation."

In her campaign statements, Loflin, a regional defense lawyer, expressed a belief in "fair and impartial decision-making" and "respect for every person."

The candidate began her career serving the indigent in the Riverside County Bar Association's Legal Aid Program. She then worked as a prosecutor before opting to open her own law practice in downtown Riverside.

"Justice works best when it is guided by integrity, accountability and respect for every person who enters the courtroom," she said. "My approach to the bench is grounded in public service, constitutional principles and nearly two decades of real courtroom experience in Riverside County."

She subscribes to the philosophy of an arbiter who does not "advance personal views or political agendas -- but applies the law fairly, thoughtfully and consistently."

Paradise's campaign portal can be found at paradiseforjudge.com/. Garcia's is at garciaforjudge2026.com/, and Loflin's at jenloflin4judge.com/judicial-philosophy/.

The Riverside County Superior Court, often referred to as Department 10 or the probate/civil division, is located at the Riverside Historic Courthouse.