Leadership, Experience and Accountability: Examining the Candidates in the November Election

The Importance of Leadership at Every Level

With Early Voting already beginning for the November 3, 2026, Election, it is important to note that the decisions made at the ballot box will shape the future of our communities, our state and our nation. From the Halls of Congress to the Courtrooms of Orleans Parish, elected officials carry responsibilities that directly affect the lives of everyday citizens. At Data News Weekly, we believe voters deserve leadership grounded in experience, integrity, accountability and a genuine commitment to public service. This election presents an opportunity to examine candidates whose records, qualifications and approaches to leadership deserve serious consideration as citizens prepare to make informed decisions about their future.

Jamie Davis — U.S. Senate: A Voice Rooted in Louisiana Communities

Jamie Davis brings a perspective shaped by his experiences as a third-generation farmer, businessman and former Tensas Parish Police Juror. His background in rural Louisiana informs a campaign focused on economic opportunity, accessible healthcare, education and improving the quality of life for working families.

Davis has emphasized the need to strengthen public schools, support Louisiana farmers, expand healthcare access and invest in communities that have historically lacked adequate resources.

His candidacy also raises important questions about representation in Washington and whether Louisiana’s diverse communities are receiving the attention they deserve.

As voters evaluate Davis, his experience in local government and his proposals for addressing affordability, infrastructure and economic development provide a foundation for examining how he would represent Louisiana in the United States Senate.

Troy Carter — U.S. House, Second Congressional District: Experience and Continued Service

Congressman Troy A. Carter has established a record of Public Service representing New Orleans and surrounding communities at the local, state and federal levels.

Throughout his career, Carter has emphasized infrastructure improvements, economic development, disaster recovery, healthcare access and the protection of Civil Rights.

His work in Congress has included advocating for federal resources to address Louisiana’s infrastructure needs and helping communities navigate the complicated process of disaster recovery.

For residents of the Second Congressional District, effective representation requires understanding the unique challenges facing urban neighborhoods, working families and historically underserved communities.

Carter’s experience provides voters with an established record to evaluate, including his ability to work with federal agencies, advance legislation and secure resources for the district.

His reelection campaign offers voters an opportunity to assess his accomplishments and priorities for another term.

Judge Kimya Holmes — Criminal District Court, Section D: Experience on the Bench

Judge Kimya Holmes brings extensive Criminal Trial Experience to her reelection campaign for Section D of Orleans Parish Criminal District Court.

Before joining the bench in 2021, Holmes spent approximately two decades practicing law, including work as a Prosecutor and Criminal Defense Attorney.

Her professional background gives her experience with the responsibilities and challenges involved in administering Criminal Justice.

During her judicial tenure, Holmes has presided over numerous jury trials and overseen a demanding criminal docket.

The administration of justice requires judges who understand the law, respect constitutional protections and maintain fairness for victims, defendants and the broader community.

As voters consider Holmes for another term, her courtroom experience, case management and approach to judicial responsibility provide important measures of her performance.

The public’s confidence in the Justice System depends upon integrity, impartiality and consistent application of the law.

Judge Juana Lombard — Criminal District Court Magistrate: Experience and Judicial Responsibility

Judge Juana Marine Lombard serves in the Magistrate Section of Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, where judicial decisions carry significant consequences for public safety and individual rights.

Her position requires careful consideration of legal procedures, constitutional protections and the circumstances surrounding criminal cases.

The Magistrate Court plays an essential role in the administration of Criminal Justice, particularly in matters involving initial appearances, bail and other preliminary proceedings.

Lombard’s judicial experience provides voters with an opportunity to examine the importance of continuity, legal knowledge and accountability in the courts.

At a time when New Orleans continues working to improve public safety and strengthen confidence in its Criminal Justice Institutions, the responsibilities of the Magistrate Court remain especially important.

Her reelection campaign invites consideration of her judicial record and approach to balancing fairness, efficiency and public safety.

Shawn Lindsay — Civil District Court, Division M: A Commitment to Fairness and Justice

Shawn Lindsay is seeking election to Division M of Orleans Parish Civil District Court, a position that carries significant responsibility for resolving disputes affecting individuals, families and businesses.

Civil Courts play an important role in everyday life, addressing matters involving legal rights, financial disagreements, property and other issues that can have lasting consequences.

Candidates for the judiciary must demonstrate sound legal judgment, respect for due process and the temperament necessary to make difficult decisions impartially.

Lindsay’s candidacy offers voters an opportunity to examine his legal qualifications, professional experience and approach to judicial service.

The next judge in Division M will be responsible for ensuring that individuals appearing before the court receive fair consideration under the law.

Public confidence in the judiciary ultimately rests upon competence, integrity, accessibility and a commitment to equal justice.

Candace Newell — Civil District Court, Division L: Public Service and Legal Experience

State Representative Candace Newell brings experience in law, education and public service to her campaign for Division L of Orleans Parish Civil District Court.

As a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, Newell has participated in the legislative process and gained experience addressing issues affecting residents across New Orleans.

Her professional background also includes work as an attorney and educator, providing perspectives on the relationship between law, public policy and community needs.

The transition from the legislature to the judiciary requires a different set of responsibilities, including impartial decision-making and the consistent application of established law.

Voters evaluating Newell can consider how her legal background, legislative service and professional experiences would inform her judicial approach.

Her candidacy highlights the importance of selecting judges who understand both the technical requirements of the law and the human consequences of judicial decisions.

Our Vote, Our Voice, Our Future

The November Election is about more than individual candidates. It is about the kind of leadership, representation and justice Louisiana residents expect from those entrusted with public office.

Data News Weekly encourages every eligible voter to become informed, examine the candidates’ records and participate in the democratic process.

Our communities are strongest when citizens remain engaged, demand accountability and recognize that their voices matter.

The future of Louisiana and New Orleans will be shaped not only by those elected to lead, but also by the citizens who exercise their RIght to Vote.