New Orleans voters head to the polls in just over a month to elect the city’s next mayor — and three frontrunners have already emerged. In this video, WWL Louisiana’s Devin Bartolotta breaks down the backgrounds, platforms and campaign promises of the top three candidates: Helena Moreno — Leading in the polls with 47%, Moreno brings a unique path from journalism to politics. After leaving a career as a television reporter following Hurricane Katrina, she entered public service in 2010. Moreno has pushed for causes like domestic violence advocacy, decriminalization of marijuana, mental health services, and fentanyl testing strips. Her campaign slogan, “A New Direction,” focuses on improving city services, infrastructure, and supporting local nonprofits to address youth violence. Royce Duplessis — A state senator and Pontchartrain Park native, Duplessis has passed more than 70 pieces of legislation since joining the Louisiana House of Representatives in 2018. He emphasizes opportunity, equity and youth programs like NORDC, hoping to move from Baton Rouge to New Orleans City Hall. Though he initially said he would not run, he entered the race in June after conversations around public safety and justice reform. Oliver Thomas — A longtime New Orleans politician and community advocate, Thomas represents District E (New Orleans East). His career includes decades of work on the City Council, a personal history shaped by gun violence, and a comeback story after serving prison time for federal bribery charges. Since returning to politics in 2021, Thomas has focused on revitalizing grocery access, redeveloping the abandoned Six Flags site and restoring Lincoln Beach. 📊 WWL Louisiana Poll (August 2025): Helena Moreno — 47% Royce Duplessis — 18% Oliver Thomas — 16% 🗳️ New Orleans Mayoral Debate — September 16, 2025 Moderated by Charisse Gibson and Katie Moore. 📺 Watch on WWL Louisiana and WWL+ starting at 6:30 p.m. with the pre-debate show. Stay with WWL Louisiana for complete mayoral election coverage, candidate profiles and debate analysis. #NewOrleans #Election2025 #WWL