Broome and James Emerge as Front-Runners in Heated East Baton Rouge Mayoral Race
BATON ROUGE, La. – The battle for the mayoral seat in East Baton Rouge Parish is shaping up to be a fierce contest between incumbent Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and former state representative Ted James. As the race intensifies, both candidates have emerged as the clear front-runners in a crowded field of nine contenders.
Sharon Weston Broome, who is seeking re-election, has emphasized her experience and leadership in guiding the parish through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and severe weather events. "I will be standing on the significant track record that we have, which automatically sets me apart from any contender," Broome stated, underscoring her role in steering the parish through crises and her commitment to continuing the progress made during her tenure.
Ted James, a prominent Democrat and former U.S. Small Business Administration Regional Administrator is challenging Broome with a campaign focused on change and inclusivity. "I made the decision last year that I am no longer accepting the things that I can’t change, but we’re changing the things that we can no longer accept," James declared, positioning himself as a candidate ready to tackle the parish’s persistent issues with fresh ideas.
Political analyst Clay Young noted that while the race includes several other candidates, including Republicans and Independents, the contest remains primarily between Broome and James. "It’s tougher when you don’t have money or name recognition. At least coming into this, we know people like Sid, and Ted has already established a brand, and the mayor has never lost an election," Young explained.
The crowded field, which includes candidates like local high school football coach Emile “Sid” Edwards and Republican Tambra “Tammy” Cook, could play a pivotal role in how the numbers shake out, but Young suggests this might ultimately benefit Broome. “If you were on Broome’s team, you’re concerned about how the numbers shake out, but if you’re on the Broome team now, you’re feeling better,” he said.
James’s entry into the race marks a significant challenge to Broome’s leadership, especially given their past political alliance. However, the influx of multiple Republican candidates, including Steve Myers and Nathaniel Hearn, as well as Independents Ryan “Bad Bidness” Carter, William “Champagne” Roundtree, and Gregory Taylor, may dilute the opposition vote, potentially aiding Broome’s re-election efforts.
As the campaign heats up, both Broome and James will need to effectively communicate their visions for the future of East Baton Rouge Parish, with every vote proving crucial in what promises to be a closely contested race.
