State Representative Vincent Pierre was elected on Jan. 19 as chairman of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus, the influential bloc of Black legislators.

He takes over the caucus less than two weeks before lawmakers reconvene for a special redistricting session. Due to the increased population of Blacks and Hispanics in parts of the state, lawmakers will face questions of race and representation and determine if and how new district maps are drawn.

Pierre is co-owner of a Lafayette dry-cleaning business and graduate of Holy Rosary Institute, Southern University in Baton Rouge, and the Greater Lafayette Chamber of Commerce’s Leadership Lafayette Program

The Democrat from Lafayette is poised to replace Rep. Ted James, who was tapped by President Joe Biden as the regional director for the Small Business Administration.

Other elected officers include Representative Candace N. Newell of New Orleans, Vice Chairman; Representative Kyle Green Jr. of New Orleans, First Vice Chairman; Senator Katrina R. Jackson of Monroe, Senate Whip; Secretary is Vacant; Senator Regina A. Barrow of Baton Rouge, Treasurer; Representative Rodney Lyons of Harvey, Parliamentarian; Sergeant-At-Arms and Chaplain, Vacant. All vacant positions will be filled by appointment prior to the start of the Special Session.

All terms for the elected executive board officers of the Louisiana Legislative Black Caucus become effective February 1, 2022.