Democrat Chasity Martinez Wins Louisiana Special Election in Trump-Leaning District
Chasity Verret Martinez, a Democrat, won a special election for a Louisiana state House seat on Saturday night. Martinez secured 62% of the vote, defeating Republican opponent Brad Daigle, who received 38%, according to unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State.
Martinez's victory secured 62% of the vote, significantly outperforming President Trump's 13-point margin in the district in the 2024 election.
Election Context and District Profile
The special election was initiated after the previous Democratic state representative was appointed by Republican Gov. Jeff Landry to a commissioner position. The district had been carried by President Trump by 13 points in the 2024 election, making it a target for Republicans.
Martinez's Campaign and Strategic Hold
Martinez's victory maintains Democratic control of the seat; it was not a party flip. However, Republicans had identified the district as a potential pickup due to its past presidential voting record. Martinez, a former Iberville Parish councilwoman, focused her campaign on affordability and local issues and was outspent by Republicans by a 3-to-1 margin. Her campaign strategy and focus on local concerns likely resonated with voters despite the broader partisan lean.
Broader Special Election Trends
This outcome follows another recent Democratic win in a Texas 9th state Senate special election, where Democrat Taylor Rehmet flipped a seat previously held by the GOP for over 40 years. The Louisiana result adds to a pattern of Democratic success in special elections.
Republicans have not secured any legislative pickups in special elections during Mr. Trump's second term, while Democrats have flipped eight previously Republican-held districts in special elections since Mr. Trump took office.