Louisiana Republicans Eliminate Elected Position Ahead of Exoneree’s Inauguration
Louisiana Republicans have abolished the elected position of Orleans Parish clerk of criminal court, days before Calvin Duncan, an exoneree who overwhelmingly won the seat, was scheduled to take office. Governor Jeff Landry signed the legislation, which Republicans claim will improve judicial efficiency and cut costs by consolidating the civil and criminal clerk positions. Democrats, however, view this as government overreach and an infringement on the voting decisions of a predominantly Black parish, particularly affecting Duncan who was wrongfully convicted and served nearly 30 years in prison. Duncan has vowed to fight the change, asserting it undermines the will of the voters and could lead to disenfranchisement.
John Q. Hosedrinker