Two newly elected state leaders plan to push for change at the state Capitol.
“As a state representative, I want to be one of those voices to help lead those changes,” said Dana Henry.
“Standing up and being a strong voice for my district when there’s a need, I’ll do that,” said Sidney Barthelemy.
In a close race, state representative-elect Dana Henry secured 53 percent of the vote in the District 100 run-off election.
State senator-elect Sidney Barthelemy II won for District 3, with 64 percent of the votes.
“I think what benefits New Orleans benefits the state, so I need to make that argument,” Barthelemy said.
Political newcomer Barthelemy is the son of a former New Orleans mayor.
His district represents parts of the Bywater into St. Bernard Parish, Gentilly, and New Orleans East, which is an area he plans to prioritize advocating for economic growth.
“It had a lot to do with needing improvements in the district and wanting to play a role on it, being an advocate for neighborhoods in my district, and I think I can be helpful and I want to do that,” Barthelemy said.
But he’ll have to move fast as the legislative session is already underway.
Both state leaders have a short timeframe to file new bills before the month ends.
Henry was elected to the seat Councilman Jason Hughes previously held.
He plans to focus on lowering insurance rates and promoting growth through new projects that will tap into the potential of New Orleans East.
“The Louisiana International terminal in Violet is a transformative business opportunity, with the expansion of the port in Violet, most of the cargo is going to have to go up and down 5-10 to get to I-10, Lincoln Beach is another opportunity I think we can find state support there,” Henry said.
READ MORE:New state leaders share plans in office at State Capitol
