By Ian Robinson | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – From who will lead Shreveport City Hall to who will serve as Caddo Parish’s district attorney, voters will decide several major local races when they head to the polls Nov. 3.
The races for Shreveport mayor and Caddo Parish district attorney are among the most closely watched local elections. Voters will also decide seats on the Shreveport City Council and races in small towns like Blanchard.
Several candidates have already secured offices after being the sole qualifier such as Tim Euler for the District D seat on the Shreveport City Council.
Seven candidates are seeking the Shreveport mayor’s office, including Republican incumbent Mayor Tom Arceneaux, who is vying for a second term. He is being challenged by Democratic state Rep. Tammy Phelps, Democratic Caddo Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts, Republican Commissioner John-Paul Young, Democrats Chaunta Mero and Michael Williams and Siavash “Sia” Fakhiriravari, who is running without a party affiliation.
The race has focused on public safety, water and sewer needs, economic development and blight. Arceneaux has highlighted bond projects and economic growth, while challengers have emphasized policing, infrastructure, and neighborhoods.
Incumbent District Attorney James Stewart is seeking another term against Republican state Sen. Alan Seabaugh, Patricia “Pat” Gilley, who has no party affiliation, and Libertarian Lauren Ray Anderson.
Stewart has touted his record as district attorney since winning his first election in 2015 while Seabaugh has come out as the candidate who has raised the most funds.
Several Shreveport City Council seats will be decided. District A incumbent Tabatha Taylor is challenged by Republican Hanh Williams, while District C Councilman Jim Taliaferro faces Mark Black. The District F council race features four candidates who are vying to replace James Green.
In Blanchard, incumbent Mayor Jim Galambos faces Republican Steve Umling. A third candidate, Donald Nowatzke, withdrew after a judge found him ineligible because of residency requirements.
Aside from candidate races, Caddo Parish voters will decide whether the parish can issue up to $60 million in bonds to finance construction of a proposed multisports complex. Parish officials have said the proposition would not require new taxes for residents.
Early voting starts Oct. 20 and runs through Oct. 27, excluding Sunday, Oct. 25. Election Day is Nov. 3. Any race without a majority winner will head to a Dec. 12 runoff.