BATON ROUGE, LA – The race to fill the vacant Louisiana House District 67 seat took center stage on Thursday, April 10th, as Democratic candidates Terry Landry, Jr. and James “Sonny” Marchbanks faced off in a public forum at the River Center Branch Library. Hosted by the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison Reform Coalition in partnership with The Bayou Progressive, the lively event provided a platform for the two contenders to outline their platforms and engage with voters ahead of the crucial May 3rd election.
Notably absent from the proceedings was fellow Democratic candidate Malcolm Myer, who said he could not attend due to a scheduling conflict. The forum was moderated by Dr. Flitcher Bell of the Southern University Law Center.
Public Safety and Criminal Justice Reform Dominate Discussion
Public safety emerged as a central theme throughout the evening. Landry, currently the Louisiana Policy Director for the Southern Poverty Law Center, emphasized a data-driven approach to rehabilitation within the criminal justice system. He recounted a personal experience of gun violence at a Christmas parade to underscore the importance of community safety. Marchbanks, a project manager at a minority-owned construction firm, also stressed the need for a safe community, highlighting education as a key component of public safety. Both candidates voiced strong opposition to the recently passed permitless carry gun law. Landry pledged to resist further expansion of gun rights, opposing guns in schools and open carry in establishments serving alcohol, with the long-term goal of repealing the law. Marchbanks echoed this sentiment, suggesting that repealing concealed carry “would go a long way” in addressing gun violence.
A significant moment came during Marchbanks’ opening remarks when he disclosed a past arrest from his college years related to his partner’s addiction issues. He explained how he took responsibility for his actions and persevered. Later, he connected this personal experience to his views on the criminal justice system, emphasizing its potential unfairness and advocating for rehabilitation and second chances.
Education and Economic Opportunity Highlighted as Top Priorities
Education also featured prominently in the candidates’ priorities. Marchbanks declared universal pre-K as his “top priority,” vowing to introduce legislation every session until it is achieved. Landry similarly committed to “fully funding early early childhood education”. Both candidates expressed their unequivocal support for the Caleb Wilson Act, legislation aimed at preventing hazing incidents on college campuses.
In terms of economic vision, Landry emphasized investing in children and local businesses to foster opportunity. Marchbanks called for encouraging an entrepreneurial economy in Baton Rouge, supporting small businesses, and improving public transportation to enhance quality of life and economic growth.
Diversity and Healthcare Funding Loom as Key Challenges
Addressing the increasing diversity of East Baton Rouge Parish, particularly its immigrant population, both candidates acknowledged the need for inclusivity. Marchbanks drew upon his experience in a law office serving Spanish-speaking clients, suggesting the use of technology for communication. Landry emphasized the importance of meeting immigrant communities where they are, potentially through translation services and multilingual materials.
The potential loss of federal healthcare funding also generated significant concern. Landry stressed the imperative to expand healthcare access, including mental health services, and ensure adequate funding. Marchbanks warned of a potential collapse of the state’s healthcare system and an increased burden on the prison system if federal cuts materialize, underscoring the critical need to maintain these programs.
Local Governance and Redistricting Issues Spark Discussion
On the topic of local government, particularly the recent formation of the City of St. George and related bills concerning entities like BREC and CATS, both candidates expressed a need for further information before committing to a stance. While acknowledging potential inefficiencies within existing systems, Landry questioned the rationale behind taking over seemingly successful entities like BREC.
Both Landry and Marchbanks firmly stated their support for creating a second minority-majority congressional district in Louisiana, aligning with the state’s demographic makeup.
Democrats Emphasize Shared Values and Call for Voter Mobilization
Throughout the forum, both candidates emphasized their Democratic values and their commitment to representing the interests of the people, particularly working-class families. Landry described being a lifelong Democrat focused on serving the public and investing in the community. Marchbanks highlighted the Democratic Party’s historical commitment to the working class and civil rights, underscoring his own working-class background.
Rev. Alexis Anderson of the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison Reform Coalition made a strong call to action for voter registration and participation in her closing remarks, emphasizing the low turnout often seen in local elections. She urged attendees to engage their communities and ensure their voices are heard in the upcoming election.
As the May 3rd election approaches, the forum provided District 67 voters with a clear look at the priorities and perspectives of the two Democratic candidates vying for the seat. With common ground on several key issues but distinct personal and professional backgrounds, the choice for voters will likely hinge on which candidate’s vision and experience they believe best align with the needs of the district.