Full Breakdown
New Orleans Elections: Charter Amendments and Criminal Court Clerk Results
11/16/2025, 8:06:17 PM
Overview of Recent Elections
On November 15, 2025, New Orleans voters participated in significant elections that included two proposed amendments to the city’s home rule charter and the election of a new Clerk of Criminal District Court. The results of these elections are poised to influence local governance and legal representation in the city.
Charter Amendments Approved
Voters approved two amendments to the city’s charter. Amendment 1 extends the review period for the City Planning Commission and City Council to make changes to the city’s master plan from 60 days to 90 days and from 45 days to 90 days, respectively. Proponents argue that this additional time will enhance public input and allow for more comprehensive analysis of proposed changes.
Amendment 2 modifies the role of the New Orleans city attorney, who is now required to represent the city as a whole rather than a single branch of government. This amendment also introduces ethical guidelines for the office and grants the City Council the authority to prevent the mayor from terminating the city attorney under certain conditions.
Election of Calvin Duncan
In a notable election outcome, Calvin Duncan, a man who spent three decades wrongfully imprisoned, was elected as the city’s Clerk of Criminal District Court. Duncan secured 68% of the vote against incumbent Darren Lombard. His election follows a long battle to clear his name after his murder conviction was vacated in 2021 due to evidence of police misconduct. Despite opposition claims regarding his past, Duncan's victory is seen as a significant step toward reforming the criminal justice system in New Orleans.
Duncan's platform emphasizes the need for fair treatment in the court system and improved management of court records. He aims to address the existing reliance on paper files in the criminal court system, which has faced challenges, including a recent incident where court records were mistakenly discarded.
Official Statements & Responses
Following the elections, Darren Lombard acknowledged Duncan's victory and expressed readiness to support a smooth transition. Joe Dumars, the Pelicans' executive vice president, also commented on the importance of leadership changes in local governance, reflecting a broader sentiment of accountability and reform within the city.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite Duncan's exoneration, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and others have publicly questioned his innocence, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding perceptions of justice and accountability in the legal system. Critics of the charter amendments have raised concerns about the implications of extended review periods and the potential for political maneuvering in the city attorney's role.
What's Next
The newly approved amendments and Duncan's election signal a shift in New Orleans' governance, with potential implications for urban planning and legal representation. Observers will be watching closely to see how these changes affect local policies and the administration of justice in the coming months.
