Runoff needed to determine who takes the 5th congressional district seat

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - The 5th Congressional District seat became vacant after Julia Letlow entered her name into the U.S. Senate race.

Nine candidates put their name into the running for the Letlow’s previous seat. After the Nov. 3 election, that number fell to two.

Democrat Patricia “Pat” Moore and Republican Gabe Firment will head to a runoff.

Moore finished with 18% of the vote, and Firment ended with 17%.

Both candidates are currently state representatives who believe their experience in that field will help them if elected to congress.

Both candidates thanked God and their supporters.

“I just want to say to those who did not vote for me, I just ask that you allow me the opportunity to have more conversations with you,” Rep. Moore said. She highlighted her experience in the state legislature working with both parties to get items passed in Baton Rouge. “I will truly be a force for all the people.”

Rep. Firment said he wants to make sure the people of Louisiana have a voice. He said he expected a runoff considering there were 4 or 5 really strong Republican candidates.” “I am very thankful to the people of central Louisiana.” Despite being from central Louisiana, Firment said he will work with state Rep. Michael Echols to help northeast Louisiana.

The runoff for this election will be on Dec. 12th.