Breaking: Senator Sam Jenkins Not Running for Mayor of Shreveport

Some big news in the Mayor's race in Shreveport. State Senator Sam Jenkins has made up his mind about his political future.

Senator Jenkins sent this statement to KEEL News this morning:

“After careful consideration, I will not be a candidate in the 2026 Shreveport mayoral election because this is not the right time. My focus remains on advancing an aggressive legislative agenda, meeting the demands of my law practice, and delivering meaningful results for Shreveport and Northwest Louisiana."

Jenkins has been considered a front-runner on the Democratic side. Several possible candidates have been waiting to see what Jenkins would do. Now that Jenkins is out of the race, this opens the door for other Democrats to jump in the race.

READ MORE: DA's race in Caddo Could Be a Battle

Jenkins does have this message for folks who have been trying to get him to run:

"I am grateful for the enthusiastic encouragement I have received and remain fully committed to serving with strength and purpose as State Senator for District 39.”

What Other Democratic Candidates Are Likely in the Race?

We know Caddo Parish Commissioner Stormy Gage-Watts has announced she's running for Mayor. Lesser know candidate Michael Mays says he's also running. And we are now hearing State Representative Tammy Phelps is considering a run for Mayor.

KEEL contacted Phelps this morning and she told us she was not prepared to make an announcement yet, but she says she is considering a run for Mayor.

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Political analyst Scott Hughes tells KEEL News:

Phelps could be an interesting fit. She is very well known. A lot of Tammy's issues have to deal with property and and housing along with blight. She is finding out that in the legislature you have to file bills that impact the entire state. But if you come back home and become a Mayor, you can worry about policy in your city rather than the entire state.

The election for Mayor of Shreveport is in November. Current Mayor Tom Arceneaux is the only Republican in the race at this point.