New Orleans has elected a new mayor, as Democrat Helena Moreno won the race to succeed LaToya Cantrell, who concludes a tumultuous second term marked by federal corruption allegations. Moreno, a city councilmember, achieved a decisive victory with 55% of the vote, according to preliminary results from the Louisiana Secretary of State, effectively avoiding a runoff election.
With all precincts reporting, Moreno’s campaign outpaced challengers including fellow councilmember Oliver Thomas and state senator Royce Duplessis. She is set to take office in January 2024.
Transitioning Leadership in New Orleans
Cantrell, the first woman to serve as mayor in the city’s 300-year history, faced significant challenges during her second term. These included conflicts with City Council members and a successful recall effort in 2022. In a notable setback, she was indicted in August on charges related to an alleged scheme to conceal a romantic relationship with her former bodyguard. Cantrell has pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy, fraud, and obstruction.
Moreno’s campaign raised over $3.4 million, the largest amount among candidates in the race. Her platform emphasized public safety, economic development, and enhancements to city services. Born in Mexico, Moreno immigrated to the United States at the age of eight. She began her career in New Orleans as a television reporter before entering politics, serving as a Louisiana state representative from 2010 and winning her seat on the New Orleans City Council at-large in 2017.
Federal Troops and Local Governance
Moreno’s election comes at a time when conversations about federal intervention in local crime management are intensifying. Former President Donald Trump has suggested that New Orleans could be a target for sending in the National Guard, while Republican Governor Jeff Landry has also requested a deployment. Moreno has expressed opposition to the presence of federal troops in the city, indicating a preference for local solutions to crime and safety.
As Moreno prepares to assume her new role, her election represents a shift in leadership and priorities for a city eager to move beyond recent controversies and focus on community safety and growth.