Louisiana’s oil and natural gas industry has always been powered by more than just innovation and hard work; it’s powered by engaged voters who understand what’s at stake for our state’s economy, jobs and energy future. With Louisiana transitioning to a new closed party primary system in 2026, it’s more important than ever for industry supporters to prepare before heading to the ballot box.

Check Your Voter Registration Before the May 16 Primary

For the first time, several Louisiana races will use closed party primaries, including elections for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, Louisiana Supreme Court, Public Service Commission and Board of Elementary and Secondary Education.

That means your party registration now matters when voting in these primaries.

• Republicans can vote in the Republican primary.
• Democrats can vote in the Democratic primary.
• No Party voters can choose which party primary to participate in, but must stay with that party if a runoff occurs.
• Third-party voters can only vote in the general election.

Because this system is new to Louisiana, many voters may not realize that their registration could affect their ability to vote in these races. In fact, recent polling shows that more than 40% of voters are unaware of the change.

With the new closed primary system now in place, preparation is key. Before the May 16 primary, take a moment to check your registration and party affiliation. The deadline for making changes to your registration in person or by mail is 30 days before the election or 20 days before the election if you make those changes online.

You can do so quickly by visiting GeauxVote.com or downloading the GeauxVote Mobile App.

Support Candidates who Support Louisiana’s Oil and Natural Gas Industry.

Elections have real consequences for Louisiana’s energy economy. Almost all elected officials ranging from Congress and the Louisiana Supreme Court to parish leadership play a major role in shaping the policies that affect our state’s energy production, infrastructure and investment climate.

From offshore energy development and pipeline permitting to coastal lawsuits and economic development policy, the decisions made by elected officials can determine whether Louisiana remains a national energy leader.

That’s why it’s critical for voters who support responsible oil and natural gas development to show up, stay informed and support candidates who understand the importance of Louisiana’s energy sector.

Why These Elections Matter for Louisiana’s Energy Future

The oil and natural gas industry supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across Louisiana and generates billions of dollars in economic activity every year. Energy development also helps fund critical priorities like coastal restoration, infrastructure and public services through taxes and royalties.

But these benefits depend on policies that allow the industry to continue operating and investing in Louisiana.

Leaders elected in these upcoming races will help shape decisions about:

• Energy production and permitting
• Federal and state regulatory policies
• Infrastructure investment
• Economic growth across Louisiana’s coastal and energy-producing regions

When voters who support the oil and natural gas industry participate in elections, they help ensure Louisiana remains a place where energy jobs, innovation and investment can thrive.

Louisiana’s oil and natural gas industry has helped power our state for generations. By staying informed and engaged in the electoral process, voters can help ensure it continues to power Louisiana’s future for decades to come.

More Information: https://parlouisiana.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/LA-Closed-Party-Primary-Guide-Voters.pdf