Shreveport voters did not produce a clear winner in the city’s mayoral election held on Tuesday, sending the race to a runoff scheduled for December 12. The top two finishers – incumbent Mayor Tom Arceneaux and Caddo Parish Commissioner Stormy Gage‑Watts – will compete for the mayor’s office after both fell short of a majority.

According to KTBS, Arceneaux received 19,216 votes, representing 36 percent of the total, while Gage‑Watts earned 12,199 votes, or 23 percent. The unofficial results also listed five additional candidates who participated in the race: State Representative Tammy Phelps, Caddo Parish Commissioner John‑Paul Young, Chaunta Mero, Michael D. Williams, and Siavash “Sia” Fakhiraravari.

The field of seven candidates reflects a competitive contest for Shreveport’s top municipal office. Arceneaux, first elected mayor in 2022, is seeking a second term. Gage‑Watts, who is term‑limited in her role as a Caddo Parish commissioner, is aiming to unseat the incumbent and bring her own vision for the city’s future.

Both candidates will have the opportunity to present their platforms to voters ahead of the December 12 runoff. While the city’s election officials have not yet released a schedule of candidate forums or debates, local observers expect increased outreach as the runoff date approaches.

Voter turnout and the distribution of support among the remaining five candidates were not detailed in the initial report, leaving analysts to speculate on how their supporters might influence the final contest. The runoff will determine whether Arceneaux can secure a second term or if Gage‑Watts will become Shreveport’s next mayor.

What’s next: The runoff election is set for December 12. City officials will issue final certification of the November results and provide information on early voting locations and hours in the coming weeks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed through local news outlets and the city’s official election website.

Sources: ktbs.com