Republican First Circuit Court of Appeal Judge Blair Downing Edwards has announced she will run for the Louisiana Supreme Court in the upcoming special election to fill the seat being vacated by Justice Will Crain, who was recently confirmed to serve as a federal judge.
Judge Edwards brings decades of legal experience, a reputation for professionalism, and a record of principled decision-making to the race. As a longtime Republican, she has built her career on a conservative judicial philosophy, respect for the rule of law, and an unwavering belief that judges must apply the law as written — not legislate from the bench.
“I am running for the Louisiana Supreme Court because our state deserves justices who are independent, rooted in conservative principles, and strong enough to stand their ground when it matters most. I will never waiver in my belief that the Constitution and the law — not politics or pressure — must guide every decision.”
Judge Edwards currently serves on the First Circuit Court of Appeal, where she has earned the respect of colleagues and attorneys alike for her fairness, work ethic, and command of the law.
Prior to joining the appellate court, she served with distinction as a District Judge in the 21st Judicial District Court, where she built the court’s first Juvenile Division. In that role, she managed the largest case load of any juvenile court in the state involving children and families and helped preside over nationally recognized juvenile drug and truancy courts, working hands-on to ensure both accountability and rehabilitation.
Before taking the bench, Judge Edwards began her legal career serving as a children’s
attorney, advocating for the rights and best interests of young people in the legal system. Her work in juvenile justice gave her a deep understanding of the real-world impacts of judicial decisions on families and communities throughout southeastern Louisiana.
