Robert Adley is being term-limited out of the State Senate, leaving the seat open. There are three contenders, and in my opinion all are top quality. Burns comes closest to being an incumbent in this race with all of the blessings and burdens that go along with that. My opinion is that it won't make a difference.
Gatti is running a very aggressive campaign and seems to be very well funded. Hollenshead is also campaigning actively. Frankly, I'm undecided in this one, they all have points that I like. Click on their names to go to their websites.
Henry Burns has been serving as Representative for the 9thDistrict and was the first to announce for the seat. Burns, a retired Army Officer, is a former owner/operator of The Wooden Spoon Bakery for 22 years. He is also an independent oil & gas operator and raises thoroughbreds.
“My sole purpose has been to serve you and encourage you...on the frontline everyday. We share the same concerns of taxes, highways, ethical government, economic development, and education.”
Burns could have run for another term in the State House, but chose to seek the Senate Seat instead.
Ryan Gatti is a Bossier City attorney who is seeking his first political office.
For the last 15 years, Ryan Gatti has served Northwest Louisiana as a Bossier based attorney and small business owner. He has helped countless families going through their toughest times, including families dealing with situations resulting in traumatic brain injuries. He served as President of the Bossier Bar Association and in 2013, he was selected to receive a Crystal Gavel Award for his commendable efforts in aiding the administration of justice by gathering and reviewing a significant number of cases on behalf of the 26th Judicial District Court. Ryan also sat as District 1W Judge in Shreveport from 2007-2009, presiding over Workers’ Compensation trials.
A lifelong conservative, Ryan is the Vice President of the Republican Party of Bossier Parish. An active member of First Baptist Church of Bossier, he is both a deacon and teacher for kids and youth.
Todd Hollenshead is a businessman and farmer and like Gatti is seeking his first political office. Hollenshead is concerned about the state’s $700 million annual budget deficit, the rising cost of college tuition, industry leaving the state, and the struggles facing Louisiana-based small businesses. He is pro-life, pro-traditional marriage, and supports gun rights.
“I believe our state needs new direction. We need leaders who will work hard for Louisiana and not be tied to the lobbyists and out-of-state special interests. I will listen to the concerns of our small-business owners, working families and the middle class and get to work for them.”
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