It's rare, almost precedent-setting, for a mayoral candidate to attend a press conference by a mayor in office.
But that was the backstory of Shreveport Mayor Arceneaux’s press conference yesterday to review the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) grade of “F” for the Shreveport water system.
In one of his best press events, Mayor Arceneaux reviewed the criteria used for the rating and explained several grades, seemingly refuting the LDH point rating.
The “F” grade was déjà vu, similar to last year’s grade which was raised to a “D” upon appeal.
State Representative Tammy Phelps, an announced mayoral candidate for this fall’s election, attended the press event at Government Plaza yesterday.
When the press event ended, Phelps made statements to the media explaining the importance of water safety for Shreveport residents despite Mayor Arceneaux's repeated assurances that Shreveport’s water is safe to drink.
Political campaigns often ignore facts, focusing on voter misunderstandings and fears that lead to nonfactual perceptions.
No doubt Phelps will muddy the political waters once her campaign kicks off and Shreveport’s water quality and the “F” grade will become a prominent campaign issue.
