Submitted by Louisiana State Senator Blake Miguez of District 22
Correction on title: incorrectly titled Senator Miguez on Redistricting and corrected to Senator Miguez on Closed Primaries
NEW IBERIA, La. (Jan. 20, 2024) – Following a federal court order, Governor Jeff Landry led us in a special session to redraw Louisiana’s congressional map. While some may have been hesitant about this session, the legislature recognized the urgency to take action. The alternative was to let an Obama appointed liberal judge redraw the districts, which would have been much worse. We fought not only to secure Louisiana’s senior leadership in Congress but also to protect the standing of the only female member in our congressional delegation.
This session was more than redistricting; it was about protecting the integrity of our electoral process. We took a bold step forward in election reform. Now, with the new party primary bill, major parties can select their best candidates, while no party voters can still have their voices heard. To borrow a phrase from college sports, “I don’t want Alabama having a say so on who starts for LSU”. This isn’t just a change; it’s a foundation we can build upon, ensuring every Louisianan’s vote matters.
Despite criticism from the left for moving too fast on this, I am confident that our legislature can “walk and chew gum at the same time.” We are more than capable of handling redistricting and making essential electoral reforms simultaneously. Our state faces many challenges, and we don’t have the luxury of time. Our children and grandchildren deserve a future of prosperity right here in Louisiana, not elsewhere.
Thanks to State Representative Julie Emerson’s efforts, we’ve made significant strides in ensuring a cleaner, fairer election system. This session wasn’t just about compliance; it was about taking charge of our destiny and affirming our commitment to a Louisiana that is for the people, by the people.
With the electoral reforms underway, we can now refocus our energies on tackling Louisiana’s top priorities, starting with a robust plan to address and fix the crime problem. Ensuring the safety and well-being of our citizens is paramount.
