BATON ROUGE, La. — Chief Judge John Michael Guidry, a long-serving member of Louisiana’s judiciary, has announced his candidacy for the District 2 seat on the Louisiana Supreme Court, entering as a Democratic contender. With a judicial career spanning over two decades, Guidry brings extensive experience to his latest pursuit of higher office.
Currently, Guidry holds the prominent position of Chief Judge on the Louisiana First Circuit Court of Appeal, a role he assumed in January 2023, making history as the first African American to do so. His tenure on the appellate court has been marked by 26 years of judicial service, during which he has developed a reputation for his legal acumen and commitment to justice.
In addition to his judicial duties, Guidry is actively involved in legal education. He serves as an adjunct professor at the Southern University Law Center. His academic roles extend into the past where he also taught at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Policy at Southern University, contributing to the shaping of future legal minds in Baton Lemkaistate.
Guidry’s career prior to his appellate court appointment includes significant political experience. He has served both in the Louisiana House of Representatives and the Louisiana State Senate, showcasing his ability to navigate complex legislative environments. His leadership extended to roles such as commissioner on the Greater Baton Rouge Port Commission and the Greater Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport Commission, emphasizing his versatility in public service.
The race for the Louisiana Supreme Court seat is shaping up to be competitive with fellow Democrats Leslie Chambers and Marcus Hunter also vying for the position. The primary election is scheduled for November 5, coinciding with national elections, and will be followed by a general election on December 7 to resolve any potential runoffs.
This judicial election holds particular significance as it falls on the same ballot as the presidential race, underscoring the importance of the judicial branch and its impact on local governance. Guidry’s entry into this race highlights the ongoing evolution of the state’s supreme judicial body and underscores the critical nature of judicial philosophy in the highest echelons of state legal systems.
Voters in District 2 will be watching closely as candidates outline their visions for the future of Louisiana’s judiciary. With his extensive background in both the judicial and legislative arenas, Guidry aims to leverage his experience to foster a justice system that reflects the values and needs of the community it serves.
As the election approaches, the candidates’ platforms and previous contributions to public service will be pivotal in swaying the electorate, setting the stage for a deeply consequential decision that could shape Louisiana’s legal landscape for years to come.