BATON ROUGE, La. — In a significant political event coinciding with Juneteenth, prominent leaders in Baton Rouge endorsed State Senator Cleo Fields for Congress, emphasizing community unity and progress.
Fields, a Democrat representing District 14, announced his plans to run for a seat in the 6th Congressional District following lawmakers' approval of a second majority-Black congressional district during a special legislative session. This endorsement adds momentum to his congressional campaign.
The endorsement came from a distinguished group of leaders, including Rep. C. Denise Marcelle, Louisiana State Rep. Barbara Carpenter, State Rep. Larry Selders, President Pro Temp Regina Barrow, Rep. Edmond Jordan, and Rep. Vanessa Caston Lafleur. Their collective support underscores a shared vision for the future of Baton Rouge and the newly drawn 6th Congressional District.
Fields has a long and distinguished career in public service. Elected to the State Senate in 2019 and previously serving from 1987 to 1993 and 1997 to 2008, he represents East Baton Rouge and several corresponding house districts. Fields also served as a member of Congress for the 4th Congressional District, bringing extensive experience to his current campaign.
The new 6th Congressional District now includes northern and central parts of East Baton Rouge Parish, as well as West Baton Rouge, Pointe Coupee, St. Landry, Lafayette, Avoyelles, Rapides, Natchitoches, DeSoto, and Caddo parishes. This expansion creates a vital opportunity for enhanced representation and advocacy for these communities.
In a statement released alongside his announcement, Fields said, "Throughout my career in state and congressional service, my focus has always been on leading efforts to help the people of Louisiana, from my Baton Rouge Senate district to people all the way to Shreveport in my congressional district. I will offer myself for service in the 6th Congressional District in this Fall’s election. I will formally announce my candidacy in the next several weeks, but I want to be clear I will be a candidate. My focus will remain the same as it has always been: to work and fight for the people of Louisiana.”
According to a post on X, formerly Twitter, Fields shared his gratitude for the endorsements on the platform: "On this Juneteenth day, I am honored to announce the endorsement of my esteemed colleagues in Baton Rouge. As the old African Proverb says, 'If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.' I am so humbled and grateful for their support. #FieldsForUS #La06"
Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, provided a poignant backdrop for the endorsement. The day's celebrations, rich with history and culture, underscored the importance of unity and collective action. Fields' message resonated deeply, highlighting the significance of community solidarity and shared progress.
The endorsement from Baton Rouge leaders is a pivotal moment in Fields' campaign for Congress, strengthening his platform with a robust coalition of support. This united front aims to address key issues such as education, economic development, and social justice, reflecting the community's aspirations and commitment to lasting change.
As Baton Rouge continues to honor Juneteenth, the endorsement serves as a reminder of the power of togetherness and the enduring spirit of cooperation. Fields' words and the community's response encapsulate the essence of the proverb, reinforcing the belief that true progress is achieved through unity.