Legal Battle Over Candidates’ Eligibility Continues as Appeal Moves to Fourth Circuit

BATON ROUGE, La. — The battle over whether Leslie Chambers and Marcus Hunter can stay on the November ballot is heating up. A judge from the 19th Judicial District Court recently allowed both Democrats to remain in the race. However, the plaintiffs challenging their candidacies have appealed the decision. Due to a conflict of interest involving Judge John Michael Guidry, Chief Judge of the First Circuit Court of Appeal, the case has been moved to the Fourth Circuit Court.

David Bienvenu, the plaintiffs’ attorney, admits it’s difficult to predict which issues might influence the judges. “It’s hard to say what the judges are focusing on,” Bienvenu said, reflecting on the arguments presented.

Jason Redmond, spokesperson for Chambers' campaign, expressed concerns about the potential impact on voters. “It’s unfortunate if voters are denied a say in this significant election for a newly created district,” Redmond said.

Judge Marcus Hunter, one of the candidates in question, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to present his case. “We’re grateful for the chance to discuss what we think is best for the community,” Hunter noted.

The Fourth Circuit Court is expected to issue a decision within 24 hours of the arguments, possibly as early as Thursday. If they uphold the 19th JDC’s ruling, the plaintiffs could take the case to the state Supreme Court, although the high court is not obligated to review it.