Louisiana voters headed to the polls Saturday for a series of statewide elections, featuring a closed primary for the U.S. Senate alongside contests for the Louisiana Supreme Court, the Public Service Commission, and various local offices.
Senate Primary Dynamics
The Republican primary for the U.S. Senate features incumbent Senator Bill Cassidy, U.S. Representative Julia Letlow, State Treasurer John Fleming, and Mark Spencer.
The race is marked by a rare move from President Donald Trump, who has endorsed Letlow over the sitting senator. This tension stems in part from Cassidy’s vote to convict Trump during his second impeachment trial following the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.
Cassidy, a physician, has also experienced clashes with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Regarding vaccine policy, despite providing essential support for Kennedy’s confirmation.
Democratic voters are choosing between Nick Albares, Gary Crockett, and Jamie Davis. If no candidate in either party secures at least 50% of the vote, a runoff is scheduled for June 27.
Congressional Primaries Postponed
While U.S. House races were originally slated for Saturday, the state has suspended these primaries. This decision follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down a majority-Black congressional district.
Landry issued an executive order to postpone the races, stating that allowing elections to proceed under an unconstitutional map would “undermine the integrity of our system and violate the rights of our voters.”
The postponement is intended to provide the legislature with the necessary time to establish a lawful and fair congressional map. These primaries are now scheduled to take place in November.
Constitutional Amendments on the Ballot
Voters are also weighing five proposed amendments to the Louisiana Constitution. While most would take effect statewide if approved, one specific proposal also requires approval from voters in East Baton Rouge Parish.
The proposals include:
- Amendment 1: Allowing lawmakers to move certain state government positions in and out of the unclassified civil service system without State Civil Service Commission approval.
- Amendment 2: Authorizing the creation of the St. George Community School System in East Baton Rouge Parish.
- Amendment 3: Dissolving education trust funds to address retirement debt and provide teacher and staff raises.
- Amendment 4: Permitting parishes to reduce or eliminate property taxes on business inventory, potentially including a one-time state payment to local governments.
- Amendment 5: Increasing the mandatory retirement age for judges from 70 to 75.
Potential Next Steps
Depending on the primary results, voters may return to the polls on June 27 for Senate runoffs. The state legislature is expected to work toward a new congressional map before the postponed House primaries in November.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the U.S. House primaries postponed?
They were suspended after the U.S. Supreme Court struck down a majority-Black congressional district, rendering the existing map unconstitutional.
When will the postponed congressional primaries be held?
They are now scheduled to be held in November.
What is required for the St. George Community School System amendment to pass?
It must be approved by voters both statewide and within East Baton Rouge Parish.
How do you believe the postponement of congressional races affects voter engagement in Louisiana?