Republicans Push Early Voting Nov. 24-Dec. 1

BATON ROUGE — The Republican Party of East Baton Rouge Parish has endorsed four candidates in the Dec. 8 runoff election.  The endorsements were announced at Tuesday’s Ronald Reagan Newsmaker Luncheon at Café Américain on Jefferson Highway.  The party issued the following comments on its endorsed candidates:

• Judge Jeff Hughes for Louisiana Supreme Court.  “A solid conservative who will give the Louisiana Supreme Court a 4-3 Republican majority for the first time in history.  Hughes is conservative not only on business issues but also on critical issues such as the right to life, right to keep and bear arms, and traditional marriage.  His opponent has no experience as a trial judge, which means no experience presiding over criminal trials, which constitute much of the work of the Supreme Court.  Judge Hughes has 14 years as a District Judge and eight years on the Court of Appeal and is the best qualified candidate and a true conservative.  The election  of Judge Hughes is the most important race in Louisiana Dec. 8”

• Judge Mike McDonald for reelection to the Louisiana Court of Appeal.  “Judge McDonald is a dedicated public servant and a true conservative on the bench.  He is a Navy officer and former Assistant District Attorney who prosecuted criminals.  He is an experienced judge with 16 years as a district judge and 10 years on the Court of Appeal.  His opponent, a civil rights attorney, has no judicial experience.”

• Judge Suzan Ponder for reelection as Baton Rouge City Judge. “Judge Ponder has served with honor and integrity as our City Judge for 19 years.  She has a solid record of accomplishment and can be counted on to do the right thing.  Her opponent has no judicial experience and only six years’ experience as an attorney.  Judge Ponder is by far the better qualified candidate.”

• Smokie Bourgeois for reelection to Metro Council District 12. “Councilman Smokie Bourgeois is completing his first term on the Metro Council and has proven himself to be an independent voice for the average citizen.  He is not afraid to stand up to the powers that be in city government and has faced down powerful developers and special interests.  His reelection is crucial to maintaining the Metro Council’s independence from the Mayor.”

The party said, “We expect a low turnout Dec. 8 and hope that all registered Republicans will take the time to vote in this critical election, at which these important judgeships and council seat are at stake.  Who votes will be key to who wins.  Please vote during early voting Nov. 24 to Dec. 1.”