
Louisiana Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser has sharply criticized New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell over her handling of the city’s safety, especially following a terror attack on New Year’s Eve. In a candid interview, Nungesser expressed his growing lack of confidence in the mayor’s ability to protect the city, particularly in the wake of the attack he described as a failure of leadership.
While Nungesser acknowledged prior improvements in crime reduction in New Orleans, particularly in the French Quarter, he argued that these changes were overshadowed by the mayor’s failure to respond adequately to the crisis. Nungesser went further, stating, “The mayor is completely — I don’t want to say she doesn’t have a clue — she just doesn’t care.” His words signal deep frustration with Cantrell’s approach to city safety and security.
The lieutenant governor’s criticism came after the New Year’s Eve attack, which authorities have linked to an ISIS-inspired suspect. Nungesser suggested that the mayor’s lack of involvement during the crisis exposed significant leadership gaps. He also pointed out that safety measures, such as barriers, could have minimized the damage caused by the attack, raising questions about the city’s preparedness for such threats.
WOKE ST LOUIS MAYOR Tishaura Jones vows to 'hold the business owners accountable' for 'violence around convenience stores and gas stations ⚠️🤡
The meeting was organized for the launch of the "Black Mayors Coalition on Crime." pic.twitter.com/zFCs5hOoXc
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In addition to calling for stronger leadership from the mayor, Nungesser emphasized the role of state and federal authorities in securing large-scale events, including Mardi Gras and the Super Bowl. These events are vital to New Orleans’ economy, with tourism accounting for nearly $2 billion annually. He reassured the public that, despite the mayor’s shortcomings, the state would step up to ensure safety at these high-profile gatherings.
Louisiana's own Lt. Governor admits he doesn't have any faith in New Orleans mayor's ability to keep city safe https://t.co/ilsjdecqge via @americanwire_
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Nungesser also praised Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry for swiftly deploying state troopers to New Orleans, demonstrating a unified approach to public safety in the face of challenges. “We are going to make this city safe,” Nungesser asserted, underlining his commitment to protecting the city’s residents and its visitors.
As the safety concerns continue to grow, tensions between state and local leaders remain high. The divide in leadership styles is evident, with Nungesser and other state officials signaling their willingness to take control of security efforts, while the mayor faces mounting criticism over her ability to handle such critical issues.
With public safety at the forefront of discussions, many are calling for a reevaluation of the city’s leadership. Increased coordination between local, state, and federal authorities may be essential as New Orleans continues to grapple with rising crime and the threat of extremist activities.