Data News Weekly Endorsements

Terry B. Jones
Publisher, Data News Weekly

It is that time again, when our citizens are being asked to go to the polls and vote on December 11, 2021. We are asking all to get out and vote.
In the run-off election cycle, we are endorsing candidates who have experience in elected office, as well as those who display competent leadership. Also, we are spotlighting some who are emerging as future leaders for our city. It is my belief that having visionaries who are battle tested with proven experience and others who bring a fresh set of eyes to city government, will ultimately be a winning formula for the City of New Orleans.

City Council District E: Oliver Thomas
The Race for New Orleans City Council District E is perhaps the most high-profile race on the ballot. We endorse the return of Oliver Thomas because he is what is needed in District E right now. Thomas will be a bold, passionate, and competent voice on the New Orleans City Council. He has the experience and he understands City Government in a holistic way, which is something that is important in an area that since Hurricane Katrina, hasn’t received the attention it deserves. Oliver Thomas will be a leader who can work with all of the people of the district regardless of their background. He is a proven leader, with a record of excellence.

City Council District B: Lesli Harris
In the Race for New Orleans City Council District B, a fresh new voice is on the horizon. Lesli Harris, is someone who has the energy and vision to bring together the people of many different interests in this diverse district. This is what is needed now, a bridge builder who can get more young people and disaffected people to the polls. These individuals need a voice on the council that’s not tied to political organizations and the politics of old, but a fresh and progressive approach to governing. As an attorney, she’s focused on young people and equity, entities that are much needed in a city where our youth need advocates that can collaborate with communities so that all our citizens can have routes to success.

City Council District C: Freddie King
In the Race for New Orleans City Council District C, Freddie King, III is a fresh new voice who’s making an impact as an attorney and is working to improve the city in business and civic activities. He’s currently in forward motion, addressing complex city issues regarding economic development and education. He’s also worked as the Director of Constituent Services in his district, where he’s had the opportunity to meet with residents across the spectrum. In this work, he’s spoken with the people of District C about the various issues that affect them on both sides of the river. He is the bridge that connects the Eastbank and Westbank. We are proud to announce this new voice of change for the City of New Orleans.

City Council District D: Eugene Green
In the Race for New Orleans City Council District D, Data News Weekly (italics) is endorsing Eugene Green. He emerged as the leader during the primary in a crowded field. Green has experience working in city government, as well as being a business leader in New Orleans. He has the right components needed to move District D forward. He understands that this community is demographically changing, while continuing to be a district full of historic African-American neighborhoods and residents. Green is the one candidate that understands how to balance the influx of newcomers, and longtime residents, by building brides around the common goal of a better district for all.

Clerk of Criminal District Court: Darren Lombard
In the Race for New Orleans Clerk of Criminal District Court, Darren Lombard is experienced with the competence that matters and the integrity that this job requires. He previously worked as a Deputy Clerk in this office, and is presently serving a term as Clerk of Second City Court, doing an excellent job improving its efficiency and transparency while developing important partnerships. He is also civically engaged, working with the Silverback Society and the Fore!Kids Foundation, mentoring and inspiring the next generation of future leaders of the City of New Orleans. Darren Lombard is a leader on many levels in our community, and we are asking everyone to support him on Election Day.

New Orleans Criminal Sheriff: Marlin Gusman
In the race for Criminal Sheriff, Data News Weekly (italics) is endorsing Marlin Gusman. He is one who continues to provide stellar leadership and vision for the New Orleans Parish Prison. He is tough, yet reform oriented. During his time in office, he continues to win re-election because he knows how to get things done. Gusman is an effective leader, who can bring people together, taking a holist, big picture approach to leadership. This is why we are endorsing Marlin Gusman, a proven leader for Criminal Sheriff.
Data News Weekly (italics) is Encouraging Everyone to Get Out and Vote!!!