SHREVEPORT, La. — Former Caddo Parish Commissioner Michael Williams officially announced his candidacy for mayor of Shreveport on Saturday, outlining a platform centered on public safety, economic development, infrastructure and youth retention.
Williams made the announcement before a crowd of family members, friends and supporters gathered at the Pamjora Art Society. A former member of the Caddo Parish Commission, Williams served 14 years in the role and is running under the campaign slogan, "Putting Shreveport First."
During his remarks, Williams said his experience in public service and efforts to address juvenile crime make him uniquely qualified to lead the city.
"I am officially declaring my candidacy for mayor of Shreveport, Louisiana," Williams said. "No one in this race has more political experience or a stronger record of working to address juvenile crime in this community."
Williams also emphasized the importance of bipartisan cooperation, saying elected leaders must "put people over party" and focus on what is best for residents.
Supporters at the event voiced confidence in Williams' leadership.
"We need a man who will come down and fight for the people, who's going to do what he says he's going to do," said Charles Williams, the candidate's brother. "I've always said that when he ran for commissioner, Mike will treat you right."
Williams' political career has included legal challenges. In 2016, he was convicted of wire fraud and served 14 months in federal prison. He is legally eligible to seek elected office and has returned to public life following the completion of his sentence.
Despite his past conviction, supporters attending the announcement said they believe Williams is the right candidate to lead the city and address the challenges facing Shreveport. With his announcement, Williams joins an expanding field of declared candidates in the November mayoral election.