May 6, 2025 Story by Editor
In a historic electoral outcome, Marshall Simien Jr. has been elected as the 30th mayor of Lake Charles, becoming the first Black individual to hold the city’s highest office. Simien, an independent candidate and former city council member, unseated two-term Republican incumbent Nic Hunter in a closely contested runoff election held on Saturday, May 3.
According to complete but unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office, Simien secured 52% of the vote (7,703 votes) compared to Hunter’s 48% (7,049 votes). The voter turnout for this decisive race was 32%.
Simien’s victory marks a significant milestone in the city’s history. While Rodney Geyen served as interim mayor from late 1999 into 2000, Simien is the first Black person elected to lead Lake Charles.
Reflecting on the campaign, Simien emphasized unity and inclusivity. “So those that voted for me, I’m going to work as hard as I can to make sure their confidence was well-placed. For those who didn’t vote for me or didn’t vote at all, we are all one Lake Charles, and there’s plenty of room in this tent for everybody,” he stated.
Simien previously served on the Lake Charles City Council from 2005 to 2013 and narrowly missed the mayoral runoff in 2017 by just 100 votes. His campaign focused on economic development, attracting tourism, and supporting local businesses, with a particular emphasis on revitalizing North Lake Charles.
In his concession, Hunter acknowledged the outcome and pledged support for a smooth transition. “Marshall is a good man and Lake Charles will be just fine moving forward,” Hunter shared on Facebook. “I committed to him that it will be as seamless a transition as possible.”
Simien is set to begin his four-year term on July 1. He expressed readiness to lead Lake Charles through anticipated economic growth, particularly in the energy sector, which is projected to add approximately 8,100 jobs in 2025 and 2026.
As Lake Charles embarks on this new chapter, Simien’s election is seen as a transformative moment, signaling a commitment to inclusive leadership and community-focused progress.
Source: KPLCTV
