Anderson Statement on the 19th Anniversary of Hurricane Katrina

Nineteen years ago, as a high school senior in Baton Rouge, I watched in horror as Hurricane Katrina ripped through our state, leaving a path of unimaginable destruction in its wake. The storm was not just a natural disaster—it was a stark revelation of the deep-seated inequities that had long plagued Louisiana, particularly for Black communities. The images of families stranded on rooftops, waiting for help that was far too slow to arrive, are forever etched in my memory.

Katrina exposed a painful truth: that the most vulnerable among us are often an afterthought in times of crisis. The storm laid bare the systemic racism and neglect that had long been the reality for many Black folks in Louisiana. Entire neighborhoods were wiped out, families were displaced, and the social fabric of our communities was torn apart. The effects of Katrina linger to this day—seen in the ongoing struggles with housing, economic recovery, and access to basic services.

But Katrina also taught us the importance of leadership that is unapologetic in its advocacy for those who are most vulnerable. We’ve seen what happens when our communities are overlooked or deprioritized—people suffer, and lives are lost. That is why it is so crucial to have leaders who understand these dynamics firsthand, who will fight tirelessly to ensure that every Louisianan, regardless of their zip code or skin color, is protected and valued.

As we remember the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, let us also remember the lessons it taught us about justice, equity, and the need for bold, compassionate leadership. We must continue to fight for a Louisiana where all people have the opportunity to thrive, and where no one is left behind in times of crisis. This anniversary is a solemn reminder of the work that still lies ahead, but it also reaffirms our commitment to building a more just and resilient state for all.

A Bold Vision for Louisiana: Anderson Shines in the 6th Congressional District Debate

The recent debate for Louisiana’s 6th Congressional District, hosted by KALB-TV in Alexandria, provided a clear contrast in leadership, with only two candidates stepping up to the plate: Quentin Anthony Anderson of Baton Rouge and Peter Williams from Lettsworth. The absence of state Sen. Cleo Fields and Republican former state Sen. Elbert Guillory was notable, especially considering their status as party-endorsed candidates. Their decision to skip the debate left voters with a unique opportunity to hear in-depth from two candidates who are committed enough to the district’s future to show up.

A Fresh Voice for Change

Quentin Anthony Anderson made a compelling case for why he should be the next representative for the 6th District. Quentin’s emphasis on transparency, accountability, and bold representation resonated throughout the debate. He criticized the current political culture in Louisiana, which he described as regressive and riddled with cronyism and nepotism, noting that this culture is a major factor in the state’s brain drain and economic stagnation.

Quentin’s approach to bipartisanship was grounded in a return to “regular order” in Congress—a system where every bill starts in committee, allowing for broader input and reducing the influence of party leadership. He argued that this method would empower individual members of Congress to truly represent their districts’ interests, rather than being beholden to party leaders.

Addressing the Needs of the District

Throughout the debate, Anderson demonstrated his deep understanding of the diverse needs of the 6th District, which stretches from Shreveport to Baton Rouge. He spoke about the importance of listening to constituents and making their priorities his own, whether it’s supporting the farm bill, addressing the housing crisis in North Louisiana, or ensuring the completion of critical infrastructure projects like the Comite River Diversion Canal.

One of the most pressing issues discussed was the brain drain affecting Louisiana. Anderson argued that the solution lies not just in creating jobs, but in changing the state’s political culture to make it more attractive for young people to live and work in Louisiana. He emphasized the need to address the systemic issues that make the state seem backward and unwelcoming, such as regressive policies and a lack of diversity in leadership.

Healthcare as a Right

Healthcare was another major topic of discussion, with Anderson reaffirming his belief that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. He advocated for a return to a robust public health system, such as Louisiana’s defunct charity hospital system, to ensure that all residents have access to quality care, regardless of their ability to pay. Quentin also expressed strong support for a Medicare-for-all system or, at the very least, the inclusion of a public option in the healthcare marketplace to lower costs and increase accessibility.

A Call for Bold, Unapologetic Representation

In his closing statements, Quentin urged voters to think critically about their choice in this election. He highlighted the importance of electing someone who is not only representative of the district but is also willing to fight unapologetically for the interests of its residents. “Bold, unapologetic representation is what matters,” Quentin said. “It doesn’t matter just to have somebody that looks like you. It matters to have somebody that’s gonna fight for you.”

As the campaign moves forward, Quentin’s strong performance in the debate positions him as a candidate who is not just seeking office but is committed to making real, tangible changes that will benefit all residents of the 6th District. His message is clear: Louisiana needs a representative who will challenge the status quo and fight for a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

You can watch the full debate below:

Anderson Endorsed by the Committee to Protect Health Care

Quentin Anthony Anderson has been officially endorsed by the Committee to Protect Health Care as a Care for U.S. Candidate. This endorsement underscores Anderson’s commitment to addressing critical healthcare issues, including lowering healthcare costs, protecting the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and restoring access to reproductive health care.

The Committee to Protect Health Care, a national mobilization of over 20,000 medical providers and healthcare advocates, selected Anderson for his strong stance on healthcare reform and his dedication to ensuring that all Americans have access to quality, affordable healthcare.

Healthcare as a Pocketbook Issue

Anderson has made healthcare a central focus of his campaign, framing it as a crucial pocketbook issue for Louisiana families. “Health care costs continue to rise, and for most families, this is simply unsustainable,” Anderson stated. His platform includes advocating for the expansion of the Inflation Reduction Act’s provisions, which allow Medicare to negotiate lower prescription drug prices and cap out-of-pocket costs for seniors.

Additionally, Anderson has voiced his support for the ACA, emphasizing the importance of protecting its provisions, such as preventing insurance companies from denying coverage to individuals with pre-existing conditions and ensuring that millions of Americans can access affordable healthcare through Medicaid and Marketplace plans.

Commitment to Reproductive Health and Freedom

In light of the Supreme Court’s Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade, Anderson has committed to fighting for reproductive health and freedom. With a growing majority of Americans supporting the legality of abortion in all or most cases, Anderson has pledged to oppose any attempts to implement a national abortion ban and to restore and protect access to reproductive healthcare across the country.

“Reproductive health care is a fundamental right, and Louisiana women deserve a champion in Congress who won’t be uncomfortable or equivocal about defending that right,” Anderson said.

A Call for Bipartisan Solutions

Anderson’s endorsement by the Committee to Protect Health Care highlights his dedication to promoting bipartisan solutions in healthcare. He has voiced support for site-neutral payments, a policy that would ensure patients are charged the same amount for medical services, regardless of where they are provided. This policy aims to reduce healthcare costs by preventing large hospital systems from inflating prices when they acquire smaller physician practices.

Moving Forward

The Committee to Protect Health Care’s endorsement of Quentin Anderson as a Care for U.S. Candidate is a significant boost to his campaign, signaling strong support from the medical community. With healthcare at the forefront of his platform, Anderson continues to advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being of Louisiana families and all Americans.

Anderson Addresses the Crisis in Shreveport, Calls for Bold Action to Protect Residents

On Sunday, Quentin Anthony Anderson, Democratic candidate for Congress in Louisiana’s 6th District, visited The Pines apartment complex in Shreveport, where he delivered a powerful statement addressing the ongoing crisis resulting from mass evictions and utility cutoffs at several local apartment complexes.

“As I stand here at The Pines, it’s clear that the situation in Shreveport is more than just a local crisis — it’s a stark reminder of why we need forceful, unapologetic advocacy at the highest levels of government,” Anderson stated. He emphasized that the conditions at The Pines, Jolie, Villa Norte, and other complexes are not only a failure of local management but also of a system that allows absentee landlords to neglect their responsibilities while residents suffer.

The crisis, which led to a state of emergency declaration by Mayor Tom Arceneaux, has left many residents without basic necessities like water and electricity. Anderson criticized the system that permitted these conditions to fester, stressing the need for strong leadership in Congress to hold landlords accountable and protect the rights of tenants.

“The fact that the city had to declare a state of emergency to address basic human needs like water and electricity – in 2024 – shows just how broken the current system is,” Anderson continued. “We need bold, decisive action to protect our communities and ensure that what is happening here in Shreveport never happens again.”

Anderson’s statement was accompanied by a call for stronger federal oversight and funding to ensure that every American has access to safe, sanitary housing, regardless of their location. He vowed to make housing security a top priority in his campaign, promising to fight for the resources and policies necessary to prevent such crises in the future.

Understanding the Comite River Diversion Canal Project

The Comite River Diversion Canal project is a crucial infrastructure initiative designed to protect our communities from the devastating impacts of flooding. As a candidate for Congress in Louisiana’s 6th District, I fully support the completion of this project and have outlined my position on making it a top priority if elected. You can read my full position here.

What is the Comite River Diversion Canal Project?

The Comite River Diversion Canal is designed to divert excess water from the Comite River into the Mississippi River during periods of heavy rainfall. By creating this diversion, the project aims to significantly reduce the flood risk for thousands of homes and businesses in the region.

Why is the Project Important?

Flooding has been a persistent and severe issue for many residents in our district. The Comite River Diversion Canal is critical for several reasons:

  1. Protection of Lives and Property: The canal will provide essential protection for our communities, safeguarding lives, homes, and businesses from severe flood damage.
  2. Economic Stability: Flooding disrupts local economies, causing significant financial losses. By mitigating flood risks, the project will help ensure greater economic stability and security for our residents.
  3. Environmental Benefits: Properly managing floodwaters will help preserve our natural landscapes and reduce the long-term environmental impact of uncontrolled flooding.

Causes for Delays and Cost Increases

Despite the clear benefits of the Comite River Diversion Canal, the project has faced numerous delays and cost increases over the years. Some of the key factors contributing to these issues include:

  1. Funding Shortages: Inconsistent and insufficient funding has been a significant barrier to the timely completion of the project. Securing the necessary federal and state funds has been a prolonged and challenging process.
  2. Bureaucratic Hurdles: Navigating the complex web of regulatory requirements and approvals has caused significant delays. Coordination between multiple agencies at the federal, state, and local levels has often been slow and inefficient.
  3. Environmental Concerns: Addressing environmental concerns and ensuring compliance with various environmental regulations have also contributed to delays. While these considerations are important, they have added layers of complexity to the project.
  4. Design and Engineering Challenges: The technical challenges associated with designing and constructing a large-scale flood diversion system have led to revisions and modifications in the project plan, resulting in additional time and costs.
  5. Land Acquisition Issues: Acquiring the necessary land and rights-of-way for the project has been another hurdle. Negotiations and legal processes related to land acquisition have often been protracted.

Moving Forward

Understanding the significance of the Comite River Diversion Canal project and the reasons behind its delays underscores the urgency of completing it. The safety and well-being of our residents depend on the timely and efficient execution of this vital infrastructure initiative.

As we look to the future, it is essential to prioritize the completion of the Comite River Diversion Canal and address the challenges that have hindered its progress. By securing consistent funding, streamlining regulatory processes, and fostering collaboration among all stakeholders, we can overcome these obstacles and ensure the project’s success.

For more information on my position regarding the Comite River Diversion Canal and my commitment to making it a top priority, please read my full position here.

We Must Pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act

In the ongoing fight to protect our sacred right to vote, the John Lewis Voting Rights Act stands as a beacon of hope and progress. And that’s why I vow – if elected – to lead the charge on getting this bill passed in the next Congress.

Named after the legendary civil rights leader and Congressman John Lewis, this vital piece of legislation is designed to restore and strengthen key provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 that have been intentionally weakened over the years.

What is the John Lewis Voting Rights Act?

The John Lewis Voting Rights Act aims to ensure that every American has equal access to the ballot box by addressing various forms of voter suppression. The act seeks to restore the full protections of the original Voting Rights Act by:

  1. Restoring Preclearance: The act reinstates the requirement for states and localities with a history of voting discrimination to obtain federal approval before making changes to their voting laws or practices. This preclearance provision, which was effectively nullified by the Supreme Court’s 2013 Shelby County v. Holder decision, is crucial for preventing discriminatory practices before they can take effect.
  2. Updating the Coverage Formula: The legislation modernizes the formula used to determine which jurisdictions are subject to preclearance based on recent voting rights violations. This ensures that areas with contemporary issues of discrimination are appropriately monitored. In other words, sure, no states are instituting old school poll taxes or counting jelly beans, but if they’re doing things that in the modern age we know make it harder to vote but weren’t envisioned in the original formula, this law takes that into account as well.
  3. Enhancing Transparency: The act requires states and localities to publicly disclose any changes to voting laws and practices, ensuring greater transparency and accountability. This provision helps voters and advocacy groups stay informed and mobilize against potential discriminatory measures.
  4. Expanding Protections: The act strengthens protections against discriminatory voting practices by broadening the scope of what constitutes a violation. This includes not only traditional forms of discrimination but also practices that disproportionately impact minority communities.

Why I Support the John Lewis Voting Rights Act

As a candidate dedicated to justice, equality, and the protection of civil rights, I wholeheartedly support the John Lewis Voting Rights Act. Here’s why:

  1. Protecting Democracy: Voting is the cornerstone of our democracy. Ensuring that every citizen has the ability to participate in the electoral process is essential for a healthy and functioning democracy. This act provides the necessary safeguards to protect against voter suppression and discrimination.
  2. Addressing Modern Challenges: In recent years, we’ve seen numerous attempts to restrict voting rights and disenfranchise marginalized communities. The John Lewis Voting Rights Act addresses these contemporary challenges with updated measures that reflect the current landscape of voting rights.
  3. Empowering Communities: By ensuring that all Americans, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background, have equal access to the ballot box, we empower communities to have a voice in their government. This leads to more representative and responsive leadership that truly reflects the will of the people.
  4. Honoring a Legacy: John Lewis dedicated his life to the struggle for civil rights and voting equality. Supporting this act is a way to honor his legacy and continue his work. It’s a commitment to the principles of fairness and equality that he fought for throughout his life.

The passage of the John Lewis Voting Rights Act is not just a legislative necessity; it is a moral imperative for our country. I am committed to advocating for this critical piece of legislation and working towards a future where every American’s right to vote is protected and upheld. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive democracy that honors the legacy of John Lewis, our constitution, and ensures justice for all.

Breaking Down the DSCC Endorsement Vote

This past weekend, the Louisiana Democratic State Central Committee (DSCC) voted to endorse state Sen. Cleo Fields in the race for Louisiana’s newly drawn 6th Congressional District. While we respect their decision, it’s clear that this choice reflects the establishment’s preference for the status quo over the much-needed change our district deserves.

From the outset, we knew our campaign was the challenger, not the favorite of the establishment. Despite this, we garnered an impressive 45 votes against a well-known and powerful figure like Fields. This significant support highlights the desire for change among our supporters and within our community.

What This Means for Our Campaign

This decision does not alter our course – we are still full speed ahead, committed to campaigning as aggressively as ever and focused on winning this race. The endorsement of the establishment candidate only strengthens our resolve to push forward and bring about the change our district needs. Our campaign has been making progress every day, and the support we’ve received so far is a testament to the growing momentum behind us.

The DSCC’s decision to back a candidate with over 30 years of political baggage underscores a preference for maintaining the status quo. In contrast, our campaign is exciting the base, energizing young voters, and even appealing to independents and some disillusioned Republicans.

Why Change is Needed

Choosing the status quo means choosing the same old politics that have failed to address the needs of our community. We are running a campaign driven by the people, for the people. Our vision for Louisiana includes:

  • Economic Justice: Ensuring fair wages, job opportunities, and economic stability for all.
  • Healthcare Access: Fighting for affordable and accessible healthcare for every resident, particularly our seniors.
  • Social Equity: Promoting policies that protect and uplift vulnerable, marginalized communities.

Moving Forward: How You Can Help

Change is hard and requires maximum effort from both our campaign and our supporters. Here’s how you can get involved and help us push forward:

  1. Volunteer: Join our team and help us reach more voters. Whether it’s canvassing, phone banking, or spreading the word on social media, your efforts make a difference. Volunteer Here
  2. Donate: Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us fund our campaign activities and reach more people. Your financial support is crucial in our fight against the establishment candidate. Donate Now
  3. Spread the Word: Talk to your friends, family, and neighbors about our campaign. Share our posts on social media and help amplify our message.

A Message to Our Supporters

We are incredibly proud of the campaign we’ve built together. We are making change a little more possible every day. This endorsement by the DSCC only reinforces how important our fight is. Real change is within reach, but it will require all of us working together to overcome the status quo.

Anderson Statement on President Joe Biden’s Decision to Step Aside as the Democratic Nominee

Today, President Joe Biden has once again demonstrated his unwavering commitment to doing what is right for our country by deciding to step aside as the Democratic nominee for the upcoming presidential election. Throughout his career, President Biden has consistently put the interests of the American people first, and this decision is no exception. I have always believed that he would make the right choice for our nation, and today, he has proven that belief to be well-founded.

President Biden’s administration has arguably been the most progressive in our lifetimes. Under his leadership, we have seen historic investments in infrastructure, groundbreaking strides in climate action, significant advances in healthcare, and unwavering support for social justice and equality. His accomplishments have set a high standard for future administrations and have shown what is possible when a president is truly dedicated to progress.

While I support President Biden’s decision to allow for a new nominee, I want to make it clear that I still wholeheartedly believe he is equipped to and should remain as our commander in chief. This decision was never about his ability to govern effectively but rather about ensuring that the American people have confidence in our party’s ability to wage a successful presidential campaign. President Biden has been, and will continue to be, a successful president through January 2025, when I anticipate he will pass the torch to the incoming Democratic administration.

This historic decision will be looked upon favorably by history, particularly because of the urgency to defeat Donald Trump once and for all. By stepping aside, President Biden has significantly increased our chances of victory in November. This is not because he isn’t a good president, but because the American people deserve to have confidence in their commander in chief’s ability to lead beyond the present moment.

I anticipate that Vice President Kamala Harris will be nominated by the delegates at the convention in Chicago this August, and I am excited about our party’s prospects moving forward. Her leadership, experience, and vision make her an exceptional candidate to carry on the work we have started and to lead us into a brighter future.

This was undoubtedly a difficult decision for President Biden and his family, but ultimately, it was the right one after the concerning debate performance last month. His selflessness and dedication to our nation are evident in this decision, and I am confident that it will pave the way for a strong and unified Democratic Party, ready to secure victory in November.

Thank you, President Biden, for your continued service and for always putting the American people first.

For Immediate Release - Anderson Statement on Pres Biden Dropping Out

Quentin Anthony Anderson Formally Qualifies for Congressional Race in Louisiana’s 6th District

BATON ROUGE, LA — Today, Quentin Anthony Anderson officially qualified as a candidate for Congress in Louisiana’s newly drawn 6th District. Surrounded by supporters and members of the press at the Louisiana Secretary of State’s office, Anderson marked this important milestone with brief remarks outlining his vision and commitment to the people of the district.

“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in our journey towards a brighter future for Louisiana. I am honored to officially enter this race and am more determined than ever to represent the voices of all ten parishes that make up our diverse and vibrant district,” said Anderson. “Now, it’s full speed ahead in East Baton Rouge, West Baton Rouge, Pointe Coupee, Avoyelles, Lafayette, Caddo, DeSoto, Natchitoches, Rapides, and St. Landry.”

Following his qualification, Anderson is hitting the ground running with a series of campaign events, town halls, and community meetings across the district. The campaign will engage with voters in each parish to listen to their concerns, share his platform, and build the momentum needed to secure victory in November.

Anderson’s campaign is focused on addressing key issues such as economic justice, healthcare access, reproductive rights, civil liberties, and criminal justice reform.

“We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I am confident that with your support, we can bring real change to Louisiana. This campaign is about all of us and the future we want to build together here in Louisiana,” Anderson emphasized.

Anderson Statement on Attempted Assassination of Former President Trump in Pennsylvania

Official statement from Quentin Anthony Anderson:

Violence has absolutely no place in our politics. It is a fundamental tenet of our democracy that we resolve our differences through dialogue and at the ballot box. I unequivocally and forcefully condemn the attempted assassination of Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.

This heinous act is an affront to the principles upon which our nation was built. It undermines the very foundation of our political system and threatens the safety and security of our society. Such actions are not only illegal and immoral but also deeply un-American. They have no place in the United States, a country that prides itself on the peaceful transfer of power and the rule of law.

I commend the valor and bravery of the Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies who acted swiftly and decisively to prevent what could have been a tragic event. Their dedication and professionalism in protecting public officials and maintaining the security of our nation are truly commendable.

This goes beyond liberal versus conservative; it strikes at the heart of who we are as Americans. This kind of violence is more commonly seen in countries struggling with political instability and tyranny. We must not allow such a dangerous precedent to take root in our own political discourse.

My prayers are with our country during this troubling time. Let us remember that our strength lies in our unity and our commitment to resolving our differences peacefully and democratically. Together, we can uphold the values that make our nation great and ensure that such acts of violence are condemned and prevented.