Nine candidates for New Orleans mayor took the stage at Xavier University for the Urban League of Louisiana’s debate — and one exchange stood out. Councilmember Helena Moreno was indirectly called out by candidate Eileen Carter, sparking a tense back-and-forth that underscored how heated this race has become. The debate featured answers from the top three polling candidates — Helena Moreno, Royce Duplessis, and Oliver Thomas — on some of the city’s biggest challenges: -Crime & public safety — including whether the National Guard should be deployed to New Orleans -Economy — from biotech investment and redevelopment of Charity Hospital to supporting small businesses and ecotourism -Leadership & trust — sharp words over City Hall and how to move the city forward 📊 WWL Louisiana’s exclusive poll (August 2025): Helena Moreno — 47% Royce Duplessis — 18% Oliver Thomas — 16% 🗳️ What’s next: The WWL Louisiana Mayoral Debate airs Tuesday, Sept. 16 -Pre-show at 6:30 p.m. -Live debate 7–8 p.m. -Only on WWL Louisiana + WWL+ Stay tuned for full coverage of the 2025 New Orleans mayoral election, with candidate profiles, behind-the-scenes prep, and debate highlights. #NewOrleans #MayoralDebate #Election2025 #WWL