Leger Joins State Rep. Peterson in Deciding Not to Seek the Mayor’s Seat
In a statement released today (July 11), State Rep. Walt Leger ended speculation of a mayoral bid.
“Over the course of the last year, I have been encouraged by many to offer myself up for service as mayor of New Orleans. While I deeply considered it and am humbled by the tremendous support of family, friends and constituents, I have decided not to become a candidate for mayor. The decision was not an easy one, mostly because it presented such an amazing opportunity to serve this great city, but also because I am certain a path to victory was clear.”
Leger’s statement continued, “I am proud of my work as a legislator where, with your support, I have been able to fight for our city and improve the lives of people across our state…I will continue on this path in my current role as legislator and keep tackling the challenges facing our city and state through common sense solutions.
With qualifying for the October 14 open primary set to begin tomorrow (July 12) and continue through Friday (July 14), Leger becomes the second local politician and would-be candidate to announce plans not to run for mayor. Last week, state Sen. Karen Carter Peterson announced via Facebook that she would not run for mayor after deliberating joining the race.
In a post, she wrote, “After careful consideration, I have decided not to become a candidate for Mayor of the City of New Orleans. I am thankful for the continued support and confidence expressed by so many citizens of our great City. I’m honored by the trust voters have bestowed on me and plan to continue my public service in the Louisiana Senate, focusing on important issues of access to affordable healthcare, equity in public education, voting rights, and criminal justice reform.”
While Leger and Peterson are opting not to enter the race for mayor, several candidates have officially announced their bids, including District B Councilwoman Latoya Cantrelle; attorney and retired judge, Michael Bagneris; and former municipal court judge, Desiree Charbonnet.
In addition to mayor, Orleans Parish voters will be voting on several races including all seven seats on the New Orleans City Council; two judgeships—one on the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeal and another on the Civil District Court, Orleans Parish Sheriff, clerks of Criminal District Court and Civil District Court, Orleans Parish Assessor, Orleans Parish Coroner as well as the statewide treasurer’s race.
