Louisiana's primary election is just around the corner, happening this Saturday. People all across the state will head to the polls to cast their votes in various races, including the positions of governor, attorney general, and treasurer.
Now, for some of these important races, it's quite a crowded field. You'll find a mix of current and former politicians, business owners, lawyers, and even some newcomers who've never held office but are eager for change in the state.
So, what's all the buzz about this primary election in Louisiana? Let's break it down:
Key Races to Keep an Eye On:
- Louisiana Governor: Currently, Louisiana is the sole state in the Deep South with a Democratic governor. However, Governor John Bel Edwards can't run for re-election due to term limits. This opens the door for Republicans to try and seize the highest office in the state. Check out the candidates who've thrown their hats in the ring.
- Lt. Governor: The lieutenant governor's race is another one to watch. Incumbent Billy Nungesser has been in the role since winning a special election in 2016. He's facing competition from five others, including Elbert “Pawpaw” Guillory, Tami Hotard, Willie Jones, Bruce Payton, and Gary Rispone.
- Secretary of State: This race is significant, especially with the responsibility of buying new voting machines on the line. Republican Kyle Ardoin, the current secretary of state, isn't running for re-election. We've got a mix of five Republicans, two Democrats, and an independent vying for the role.
- Treasurer: With John Schroder running for governor, the Louisiana Treasurer position is up for grabs. Three candidates are in the running: two Republicans and a Democrat.
- Attorney General: The attorney general's position became available when the current Attorney General, Jeff Landry, decided to run for governor. The winner of this race will become the state's top legal officer.
- Ballot Measures: On top of these races, you'll see four ballot measures. But what do they mean? We've got you covered with explanations here.
- Local Races: There's more! Depending on where you are, you'll also have numerous other races, including those for state representatives, school board members, sheriffs, and various other public officials. To see the full list of races on your ballot, the Secretary of State's website is a handy resource.
When and What to Bring:
On Election Day, which is Saturday, October 14th, the polling stations are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. When you head out to vote, make sure you've got one of the following with you:
- Your driver's license
- A Louisiana Special ID
- The LA Wallet digital driver's license
- A United States military ID card with your name and picture
- Another recognized picture ID with your name and signature
Don't worry if you don't have one of these IDs. You can still vote by signing a voter affidavit.
Where to Vote:
Use the Louisiana Voter Portal to locate your polling place for Election Day or contact your parish Registrar of Voters Office. If you received a voter information card in the mail, it will specify your polling place. Be sure to double-check that you're going to the right location.
Assistance for Voters:
If you have a visual impairment or a physical disability that makes it hard to vote without help, you're entitled to assistance. You and your helper can move to the front of the line at the polling place. You can use an audio ballot instead of receiving assistance if you prefer. To get assistance, you might need to provide certain documentation or a physician's certificate certifying the disability.
Just a heads up, there are some rules about who can and can't assist voters, so be sure to check the Secretary of State's website for more details.
Election Results:
Once the votes
are in, you can find the election results on WDSU.com and our mobile app.
They'll also be live-streamed on WDSU. The Secretary of State's website is
another source for election results.
So, get ready,
Louisiana! Your voice matters, and it's time to make it heard in this important
primary election.
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