NEW ORLEANS — Councilman Oliver Thomas says he'll announce whether he's running for mayor around Mardi Gras.
The announcement comes the same day City Council President Helena Moreno officially launched her mayoral campaign.
Councilman Thomas said, "Around Mardi Gras time or so, we will make a final decision, but it won't be with campaign people or pollical advisers. It will be with family and it will be after I am in prayer."
A potential run could put old scandals in new limelight, with prior convictions for bribery. But for now he’s focusing on family, and his vision for the city’s future.
"People's tax dollars, they have to know they are getting the best possible service for their dollars. Of course, everybody is going to say public safety, but I want a government that works."
Meantime, Moreno kicked off her campaign with a video on social media Wednesday morning.
In a city riddled with problems, like potholes-filled streets, random power outages, and an affordable housing crisis, Morena promises to run "a city that works."
State Senator Royce Duplessis, who's also rumored to be considering a mayoral run, said in a statement, "The people of New Orleans tell me they are exhausted with the chaos and fights that don’t get things done for them. We need a leader that has proven that they don’t just report problems, but solves them."
The New Orleans Mayoral Election is slated for October 11th 2025, with a runoff set for November 15th if needed.
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