New Orleans stands at a pivotal moment in its long and unique history. Over the past five years, the city has experienced an alarming population decline driven by government dysfunction, the environmental impacts of global warming, and dwindling economic opportunity.
But in this fall’s elections, we have a chance to turn the tide. A new mayor, city council, and sheriff will be tasked with reversing that population decline and leading the city into a new era where we fulfill our potential and grow our economy in a way that benefits everyone. Together, we can make New Orleans a more affordable, safer, healthier place to live.
To accomplish those goals, our newly elected leaders will have to navigate many difficult issues. In this policy questionnaire, we tried to address many of the thorniest problems facing New Orleans, including child care and housing costs, homelessness, policing, labor rights, good government, and public health.
We sent the questionnaire to every candidate for mayor and city council, and most of them generously took the time to provide thoughtful answers and an optional essay response. Those answers and essays are available here, and we will be promoting them to the residents of the city throughout election season.