The Shreveport- Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce (SBAACC) held a mayoral forum this past Saturday at Riverview Theatre.
This was the FIRST mayoral forum with all seven of the candidates: current Mayor Tom Arceneaux, State Representative Tammy Phelps, Caddo Commissioner John-Paul Young, Caddo Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts, former Caddo Commissioner Michael Williams, Chaunta Mero and Sia Ravari.
The candidates gave opening statements, answered seven questions, and had closing statements.
This forum provides a good template for future mayoral forums and the candidate statements set forth their campaign themes.
SBAAC Executive Director Victor Thomas said “As we continue to grow the Shreveport-Bossier African American Chamber of Commerce, we welcome fresh energy, new voices, and greater community involvement. We encourage everyone to follow our page, invite your friends to like and follow, and help us expand our reach.
Please consider joining the SBAACC today!
https://members.sbaacc.org/join?_gl=1*i5seha*_ga*MjAyNjc5OTExMy4xNzg3Njg1MTgw*_ga_NSHNEKL7KN*czE3ODc2OTUyNzckbzIkZzAkdDE3ODc2OTUyNzckajYwJGwwJGgw
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/share/196ieQXq4a/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Learn more about upcoming programs and events at SBAACC.org.
https://sbaacc.org/
If you missed the 2026 Economic Development Mayoral Forum, you can still watch the full conversation here:
https://www.youtube.com/live/nR6AYWS2bDg?is=lIzxPB3CoAmbgT2z
Thank you for helping us spread the word and stay engaged. Our community is stronger when more of us are informed, involved, and at the table.
John came to Shreveport in January of 1977 when he was transferred to Barksdale AFB.
He’s been active in Shreveport politics since deciding to make Shreveport his home.
John practiced law for 40 years and he now monitors local politics. He regularly attends Shreveport City Council and Caddo Parish Commission meetings.
John is published weekly in The Inquisitor, bi-monthly in The Forum News, and frequently in the Shreveport Times.
He enjoys addressing civic groups on local government issues and elections.
