IT’S OFFICIAL: Brian Champagne sworn in as registrar of voters

Brian Champagne, a graduate of Nicholls State University and lifelong Luling resident was sworn into the Registrar of Voters position on July 26, at the St. Charles Parish Courthouse in Hahnville.

“I have to go to Baton Rouge, and sign a commission for the position by the Governor Blanco and I’ll be able to start by the end of week,” he told the Herald-Guide.

Champagne, a former parish councilman, said he will continue the good work started by the past registrar and long time friend, Steve Sirmon.

“I miss Steve, he was my tenth grade English teacher, I have a lot of respect for him and the work he did in this position,” he continued.

"I'm excited. It’s an honor and privilege to have this position," he said.

Champagne, a farmer, replaces Steve Sirmon, who died of cancer in June after two months on the job.

Sirmon filled the vacancy created by the retirement of longtime registrar Janice Hymel, who retired in April.

As registrar Champagne will be responsible for ensuring all residents qualify to vote, exercise their right to vote, conduct absentee voting polls, create voting roles, assure people get put in proper districts and precincts after reapportionment.

Champagne has been married for 21 years to wife Amanda. He has six children, Brittani, 18, Evan 16, Adam 14, Seth 12, Kaleb 9, and Quinn 3.

Champagne is a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 2409, founding member of the St. Charles Farm Bureau board of directors, advisory council for Council on Aging, and the River Region Caucus and countless other community service organizations.

Champagne, 46, who represented Ama and parts of Luling on the Parish Council from 1992 through 1999, was chosen from among a dozen candidates.