Community favorites face run-off for state representative
Community favorites face run-off for state representative
Councilwoman Chauna Banks or Rep. Barbara Carpenter? North Baton Rouge voters are faced with the challenge to select one of two "dynamic leaders" as the next state representative.
North Baton Rouge voters are faced with the challenge of selecting one of two community favorites as the next state representative for District 63. Will it be Rep. Barbara West Carpenter, who currently holds the seat, or will Baton Rouge Metro councilwoman Chauna Banks move into state representation?
During the October 13 primary election, Carpenter secured 41% of votes while Banks gained 33%, forcing them into a runoff. Both women have been recognized as dynamic leaders.
Since 2016, Carpenter has served two terms as state representative. She has sat on the appropriations, budget, and transportation committees, while chairing the labor and industrial relations committee. She has authored legislation on child protection, maternal support, Black suicide rates, affordable health care, financial literacy, and expungements.
Carpenter said she started her public service journey focusing on constituents' well-being, and has swiftly adapted to the district's changing needs amid hurricanes and the pandemic, reevaluating her priorities and strategies. Her current term ends on January 8, 2024.
In 2013, Banks was elected to represent District 2 of the Baton Rouge Metro Council and has served for three terms. Her current term ends on December 31, 2024.
She said her vision for District 63 focuses on “equitable funding for child welfare, environmental safety, infrastructure, juvenile justice, and education. Creating economic opportunities for my constituent base, whose demographics are intergenerational, will continue to be a priority. I would also like to see more state funding designated toward community development and revitalization in distressed communities.”
Early voting starts Friday, Nov 3 and ends Nov. 11, with no voting on Nov. 5 or Nov. 10. Saturday, Nov. 18 is Election Day. Polls are open from 8:30 am - 6:00 pm