(ProsperNews.net) – In a stunning political upset, Emile “Sid” Edwards, a Republican newcomer, defeated two-term Democrat incumbent Sharon Weston Broome to become the next mayor-president of East Baton Rouge Parish. The victory came in one of Louisiana’s bluest parishes, where Democrats have historically dominated local elections.
The path to Edwards’ victory began last month in a crowded open primary with eight candidates. Among them were Edwards, a 61-year-old political outsider, and Weston Broome, a seasoned 68-year-old politician. Despite securing endorsements from prominent Democrats like former Governor John Bel Edwards and fellow candidate Ted James, Weston Broome fell short in the December 7 runoff, with Edwards capturing 54% of the vote to her 46%.
“This is a movie. I mean, you couldn’t make this up,” Edwards said at his victory celebration, attributing his win to divine intervention. “It’s God-anointed. This was a God-driven campaign, and it will be a God-driven administration.”
Edwards campaigned on addressing Baton Rouge’s growing issues with crime and homelessness. Homicides in the city are on track to hit a record high this year, a troubling trend mirrored in many urban areas. To tackle the problem, Edwards has pledged to hire 100 new police officers. He also proposed an innovative plan to combat food insecurity by using local high schools as grocery distribution hubs.
“We are the change agent,” Edwards said. “We’re not saying that everything has been bad in Baton Rouge … But there’s some things that need to change, and as my promise to you, as the next mayor-president, it’s going to happen.”
Weston Broome, a former TV reporter and longtime political figure, gracefully conceded the race, thanking her supporters and reflecting on her time in office. “I may no longer be leading from the mayor’s office, but I promise you this, I will continue to lead from wherever I am called,” she said. “I have no regrets, none whatsoever.”
East Baton Rouge Parish has been a Democratic stronghold in a largely Republican state, with President-elect Donald Trump carrying Louisiana 60% to 38% in 2024. However, this upset suggests that even deeply entrenched political patterns are not immune to change. Edwards’ victory may signal shifting priorities among voters in the parish, particularly as they grapple with the challenges of crime and economic inequality.
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