The political season may be over, but the race for the Baton Rouge Metro Council’s top spot is just getting started. At least three returning council members are interested in succeeding outgoing Councilman Mike Walker as mayor pro tem, including Joel Boé, Chandler Loupe and Tara Wicker. Council veterans Donna Collins Lewis and Trae Welch are also said to have the post in their sights. That pool of ambition may make for a contentious meeting on Jan. 3, when the new council gathers for its inauguration. But at least three of the hopefuls are confident the council will come together and amicably decide who is best for the position, which is charged with running council meetings and filling in for the mayor in his absence. Wicker says: “I think we have a unique opportunity to unify this council and this city, and I think I am in a good position to represent the council.” Adds Boé: “We don’t want this to be a long, drawn out and contentious process, so hopefully we can collectively resolve this over the next few weeks.” It’s not clear how a resolution will be reached, but Loupe insists there won’t be any backroom deals. “I won’t be trading any horses,” he says, adding that he believes he has the support of a majority of the council. —Stephanie Riegel
Today’s poll question: Of the Metro Council members reportedly seeking the mayor pro tem position, whom would you like to see get the post?
