Voters in Louisiana’s 6th Congressional District will see a crowded ballot on May 16. Among them is Republican candidate Chris Johnson, a Baton Rouge native trying to break through in a tough race.
He is young. He is also new to politics. Still, Johnson says his run is grounded in faith, work experience, and a direct approach with voters.
Background and Faith Shape His Campaign
Johnson says his values come from his Christian faith and upbringing. He attends Greater New Galilee Baptist Church, where his family has gone for decades.
He earned a degree in commercial music from Liberty University. After that, he built a career in audio production. Then he stepped away to focus on running for Congress.
Campaign Trail Brings Mixed Reactions
Campaigning across the district has not been easy. In fact, Johnson says the process has been “not fun.”
The district includes both cities and rural areas. Because of that, he meets very different voters. In some Black communities, he hears that Republicans rarely show up. Meanwhile, in rural areas, people are often unsure of him at first.
Still, he keeps going. He writes down what people tell him. Then he studies which issues he can address at the federal level.
Top Policy Focus Areas
Johnson points to three main priorities.
- Criminal Justice Reform
First, he supports allowing some inmates to reduce sentences through military service. He says this could provide jobs and structure.
- Expanding Rail Access
Next, he wants more Amtrak stations in cities like Baton Rouge and Shreveport. He believes this would improve travel and create jobs.
- Opportunity Zones
Finally, he wants to expand opportunity zones. These areas offer tax breaks for investors who put money into local communities.
Standing Out in the Race
Johnson says he does not see growing support among Black voters who share his views. Instead, he describes himself as a consistent conservative.
At the same time, he argues some candidates switch parties for political reasons. He says that is not his approach.
As election day gets closer, Johnson continues meeting voters face to face. He says those conversations matter most as he works to earn support across all 11 parishes.