Filing for the October 14 election doesn’t take place until August 8 through 10, but the list of candidates in Washington Parish is already becoming crowded.
With Parish President Richard Thomas retiring, four parish residents have already announced as candidates to replace him.
Sheriff Randy Seal is seeking a 4th term, and three challengers have announced to run against him.
And in the race for state representative to succeed the retiring Malinda White, two candidates have already thrown their hats in the ring. (White is running for parish president.)
Filing is August 8 through 10. Parish candidates file for election at the Clerk of Court’s office in the courthouse, while state candidates file with the Louisiana Secretary of State in Baton Rouge.
The election will be held on October 14, with run-offs, if necessary, on November 18. A strong turnout is expected because there is also a crowded governor’s race on the ballot. Incumbent Gov. John Bel Edwards is term limited and cannot run again.
In addition to the governor’s race, all other state offices are up for election this year. In Washington Parish, all parish offices are up for election.
Also, voters will fill two judgeships in the 22nd Judicial District, as Judges Raymond Childress and August Hand are retiring.
A candidates forum is set for August 17. It will feature candidates for sheriff, parish president, and state representative. The forum is being hosted by the Republican Women of Franklinton organization and it is open to everyone. It will be at Sugar Shack Restaurant on Washington Street in Franklinton, with a “meet-eat-greet” at 5:30 p.m. and the forum itself at 6 p.m.
Note: Candidates submitting candidacy announcements to The Era-Leader should remember that no candidacy announcements will be published in our last edition prior to the October 14 election. Thus, the last edition for which candidate announcements will be accepted is the edition of October 4, with a submission deadline of Friday, September 20.
