The Justice of the Peace race in District 7 comes down to two longtime residents of St. Charles Parish who say their desire to help others was fostered within them long ago: incumbent Republican John Brady and Democrat Debra Alexander Preston.
Brady, the incumbent, was born in Hahnville and has resided in Luling for 35 years. He was the Director of Maintenance at New Orleans City Park for 15 years and more recently has worked in industrial sales. Like so many people in St. Charles Parish, he notes he is an avid hunter and fisherman. He was a charter member of the Luling/Boutte Lion’s Club and also served on the St. Charles Republican Parish Executive Committee.
“I’m committed to my community,” Brady said. “I am running once again for the post because I have appreciated the opportunity to serve the public in this capacity for the past 12 years. I feel it’s an important position for District 7 residents to have someone who is dependable, impartial and always available.”
Brady said even as a child, he had a drive to help facilitate an environment of equality and justice.
“The people of Luling and Boutte know I am always available and eager to help,” said Brady, who said his 12 years of experience in the position, as well as annual training via the State Attorney General’s Office to stay ahead of the curve, make him the best choice for District 7 constituents.
Preston challenges him. She is a graduate of Hahnville High School, mother of three and has been a resident of St. Charles Parish for more than 35 years, with deep family roots in the community.
She has a background in paralegal work and believes her work in various law firms have helped prepare her to take on what she says is a very important, but often overlooked, office.
“As I canvass and speak with many of the residents of District 7, they have indicated how impressed they were with my experience, my demeanor and my passion to go the extra mile,” Preston said. “I pledge to be fully accessible and further pledge that I will be committed, dedicated and fair. My office will be guided by principles and priorities.”
She said her parents are her inspiration to run, particularly drawing from her upbringing.
“They always instilled in us a deliberate work ethic, that we should always do our best, work hard and try to assist those in need,” she said. “After being approached by several individuals who encouraged me to run for this position … I prayed on it, gave it some serious thought and felt I would do a great job serving the residents of District 7.”
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