Cleo Fields Announces Candidacy for Louisiana's Redrawn 6th Congressional District State

Senator Cleo Fields to Run for Congress in Newly

Altered Majority-Black Constituency

State Senator Cleo Fields, a Democrat from Baton Rouge, declares his candidacy for Congress in the recently redrawn 6th District.

By Baton Rouge Weekly Press BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana state Sen. Cleo Fields, D-Baton Rouge, has thrown his hat into the ring for the upcoming congressional race in the state's freshly reshaped 6th District. His announcement comes on the heels of the recent legislative decision to overhaul the district, marking it as a majority Black constituency, a move that could potentially jeopardize the incumbency of Republican Congressman Garret Graves.

Fields, a seasoned political figure, previously served in the U.S. House during the era when Louisiana boasted two majority Black seats. However, that configuration was nullified due to constitutional concerns over gerrymandering. With the signing of a bill by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry, the 6th District has undergone significant alterations, stretching from Caddo Parish to East Baton Rouge Parish.

The redistricting process, overseen by Fields as chair of the Senate and Governmental Affairs committee, reflects a strategic effort to align district boundaries with the preferences of Black voters. While Fields identifies as a liberal Democrat, his collaboration with Landry on the redistricting initiative underscores his ability to navigate bipartisan cooperation.

As the campaign unfolds, Fields is expected to face formidable contenders, including Graves, who has signaled his intent to seek re-election despite the district's Democratic leanings. Speculation also surrounds potential bids from figures such as Gary Chambers, a former U.S. Senate candidate.