With Lewis’ PSC win, a rare sign of progress in Louisiana politics

BATON ROUGE, La. – On December 10th, 2022, Davante Lewis made history by becoming the youngest person ever elected to the Louisiana Public Service Commission, as well as the first openly LGBTQ+ candidate to be elected to state government in Louisiana. Lewis, who was up against three-term incumbent Lambert Boissiere III in the race, campaigned on a platform of utility affordability, equity, and a strong embrace of renewable energy sources. His victory is being seen as a major win for young, progressive leaders in the state.

Boissiere, a Black Democrat from New Orleans, had served on the Public Service Commission since 2007. He was seeking a fourth term in office, but was forced into a run-off in November and ultimately fell short to Lewis in the election.

The Louisiana Public Service Commission is a five-member board responsible for regulating utilities and transportation services in the state. As a commissioner, Lewis will play a crucial role in shaping policies that impact the lives of millions of Louisiana residents.

One of the key issues that Lewis has focused on during his campaign is access to affordable, reliable energy. Louisiana has some of the highest energy costs in the country, and Lewis has promised to work to bring down prices for families and businesses. He has also vowed to promote the use of renewable energy sources and to protect the environment from the negative impacts of fossil fuels.

In addition to his work on energy issues, Lewis has also been a vocal advocate for racial justice and equality. As a commissioner, he plans to work to address the systemic racism that has long plagued the state’s utilities and transportation systems. He has called for more diverse representation on the commission and has promised to work to ensure that all communities have access to the services they need.

The significance of Lewis’ election extends far beyond his individual policies and priorities. His victory represents a shift in the political landscape of Louisiana, as young, progressive candidates like him are increasingly gaining support and winning elections. This shift is being driven, in part, by a growing recognition that the state’s traditional political establishment has failed to address the pressing needs of its residents.

Lewis’ victory is a testament to the power of grassroots organizing and the strength of the progressive movement in Louisiana. It is also a reminder that, even in an era of deep political polarization, there is still a hunger for leaders who are willing to stand up for what they believe in and fight for a better future.