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Sonny Marchbanks
From Ballotpedia
This page was current at the end of the individual's last campaign covered by Ballotpedia. Please contact us with any updates.
Sonny Marchbanks (Democratic Party) ran in a special election to the Louisiana House of Representatives to represent District 67. He lost in the special primary on May 3, 2025.
Marchbanks completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Sonny Marchbanks was born in Fort Worth, Texas. He earned a bachelor's degree from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2013 and a graduate degree from Louisiana State University in 2017. His career experience includes working in the service industry, as a paralegal, and as a project manager.[1]
Elections
2025
See also: Louisiana state legislative special elections, 2025
Louisiana elections use the majority-vote system. All candidates compete in the same primary, and a candidate can win the election outright by receiving more than 50 percent of the vote. If no candidate does, the top two vote recipients from the primary advance to the general election, regardless of their partisan affiliation.
Nonpartisan primary election
Special nonpartisan primary for Louisiana House of Representatives District 67
Terry Landry Jr. won election outright against Malcolm Myer and Sonny Marchbanks in the special primary for Louisiana House of Representatives District 67 on May 3, 2025.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Terry Landry Jr. (D) | 51.8 | 1,499 |
 | Malcolm Myer (D)  | 42.2 | 1,221 | |
 | Sonny Marchbanks (D) | 6.0 | 174 | |
| Total votes: 2,894 | |||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Marchbanks in this election.
Campaign themes
2025
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Sonny Marchbanks completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Marchbanks' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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My story is the quintessential American narrative, forged in the hardscrabble reality of a working-class family. I grew up amidst the rhythmic clang of oil rigs and the bustling hum of a diner, learning the value of sweat equity from my father, an oil field worker, and my mother, a waitress. These formative years instilled in me a profound understanding of the struggles and aspirations of everyday Americans.
My path wasn't paved with privilege. I earned my way, navigating the demanding hours of the service industry while pursuing my academic ambitions. A product of Southeastern Louisiana University, my thirst for knowledge drove me to Louisiana State University for graduate studies, a testament to my unwavering dedication to self-improvement.
Today, I stand as a construction project manager for a Minority owned business, a role that underscores my commitment to building not just structures, but opportunities for my community. This experience has given me a unique, ground-level perspective on the challenges facing small businesses and the infrastructure needs of our region.
I am not a product of the political machine. I am a political outsider, a man who has lived and breathed the realities faced by working families. I haven't spent my life in the halls of power, but in the trenches of everyday life, building a career, supporting my community, and understanding the true meaning of hard work.
Now, I'm answering a different call to service.- This special election is about a return to reason, a commitment to common sense, and a dedication to the common good. Divisiveness poisons our blood, but there is healing in our shared humanity. We are all neighbors, all members of this community. It’s time to move on from the politics of yesterday. It’s time to grow up, to engage in constructive dialogue, and to focus on building a better future for our state. We need solutions, not slogans. We need collaboration, not confrontation. I am running for State Representative because I believe in the power of unity and the promise of progress. I believe that we can bridge our differences and work together to address our common challenges.
- A strong and diverse economy is essential for creating opportunities, supporting our families, and ensuring a bright future for Louisiana. I believe that we can achieve economic growth without sacrificing our environment or our quality of life. We should move beyond our reliance on traditional industries by fostering innovation and attracting new businesses in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. This diversification will create a more resilient and sustainable economy. I envision a Louisiana where economic opportunity is accessible to all, where businesses thrive, and where our unique quality of life is preserved for generations to come.
- As your representative, I believe that education is not just a priority, but a fundamental right. We owe our children the tools and opportunities they need to thrive, and investing in their future is the most critical investment we can make for Louisiana's prosperity. I recognize that the foundation for lifelong learning is built in early childhood. I will advocate for increased funding and access to high-quality pre-kindergarten programs, ensuring every child starts their educational journey on a strong footing. I envision a Louisiana where every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. By investing in our education system, we are investing in a brighter future for our state.
My passion centers on the interconnectedness of education, public safety, the environment, transportation, and entrepreneurship. Quality education, from early childhood through lifelong learning, equips individuals with the skills for success and fosters an informed citizenry. Robust public safety measures create secure environments where individuals and businesses can flourish. Environmental policies that prioritize sustainability ensure a healthy planet for future generations. Efficient and equitable transportation systems are vital for economic opportunity and social connection. Finally, fostering entrepreneurship through supportive policies unleashes innovation, creates jobs, and drives economic growth, strengthening our social fabric.
Star Wars' fight against the Empire mirrors my belief in individual liberty against tyranny and the power of diverse coalitions for justice. The ethical choices within the Force's context reflect my conviction in morality guiding political action. Les Misérables explores social justice, inequality, and redemption, aligning with my commitment to addressing systemic issues and supporting the vulnerable. These narratives offer accessible insights into my core values: fighting injustice, valuing human rights, understanding societal complexities, and maintaining hope for a more equitable future through collective action and a strong moral compass.
As an elected official, I believe I must act as a true representative of my constituents' needs and aspirations. This means actively listening, practicing genuine empathy, and committing to understanding the diverse perspectives within the population I serve. My priority will be the well-being of all residents, not just specific interest groups, and I will strive to make decisions that demonstrably improve their lives.
Equally vital is a deep-seated concern for future generations, recognizing that the decisions made today will have lasting consequences for those who come after us. This principle will guide me beyond short-term political gains towards a long-term vision for our community and the planet. I understand my role as a temporary custodian, entrusted with the responsibility of leaving a legacy of opportunity and well-being for the grandchildren I may never meet.
My aspiration is that my legacy will be defined by a clear and demonstrable record of leaving things better than I found them.
One of the earliest historical events I vividly recall is the Challenger explosion. As a nine-year-old deeply fascinated by space, witnessing that tragedy was profoundly saddening and left a lasting impression.
My first job was a summer job loading hay at the feed store when I was 14.
The ideal relationship between the Governor and the State Legislature is a dynamic one, characterized by collaboration, constructive engagement, and a healthy degree of tension. It's crucial that these branches work together effectively to advance the interests of the people, fostering open communication and a shared commitment to finding solutions. However, inherent in our system of checks and balances is also a necessary element of being at odds. The Legislature serves as a vital check on the executive power of the Governor, ensuring accountability and preventing overreach. This dynamic tension, when managed constructively, is not a sign of dysfunction but rather a safeguard that leads to more thoughtful and balanced policy outcomes. The goal is a productive interplay where both branches, while sometimes holding differing perspectives, ultimately prioritize serving the needs of the citizens.
Louisiana's next decade presents formidable, interwoven challenges. The relentless erosion of its coastline and the increasing threats from climate change, manifesting as rising sea levels and more intense hurricanes, demand immediate and substantial action to protect communities and infrastructure. Effectively managing water resources, balancing competing needs while combating saltwater intrusion, and mitigating the environmental legacy of industrial activity are also critical. Economically, the state must proactively diversify away from its traditional reliance on the volatile oil and gas sector by cultivating new industries, attracting and retaining a skilled workforce through enhanced education and opportunities, and addressing persistent poverty and inequality to ensure broader economic prosperity. Modernizing aging infrastructure, from roads and bridges to water systems, and fortifying it against extreme weather events are essential for both safety and economic growth, requiring innovative and sustainable funding solutions. Socially, elevating educational outcomes at all levels, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare, and enhancing public safety are fundamental to improving the quality of life for all Louisianans and building a more resilient and prosperous future. Addressing these complex issues necessitates cohesive strategies, strong leadership across sectors, and dedicated long-term investment to secure Louisiana's future.
While a background in government can offer a valuable foundation for legislators, it's the genuine connection to and understanding of the daily realities faced by their constituents that is truly indispensable. This involves more than just acknowledging their existence; it requires a deep empathy for their struggles, their aspirations, and their perspectives on the issues that directly impact their lives. A legislator who has a real grasp of the challenges faced by working families, small business owners, educators, and retirees is better positioned to craft policies that are relevant, effective, and truly serve the needs of the community.
Furthermore, it's crucial for even those with prior government experience to approach their role with a spirit of continuous learning. The complexities of governance are constantly evolving, and new challenges and opportunities will always emerge. Acknowledging that there is always more to learn – about specific policy areas, the nuances of the legislative process, and the diverse needs of their constituents – fosters a more open-minded and adaptable approach to leadership. This humility and commitment to ongoing education allows legislators to make more informed decisions and to better navigate the intricacies of their responsibilities. Ultimately, the most effective legislators are those who combine a genuine understanding of the people they represent with a proactive and receptive attitude towards the ongoing learning inherent in the role of government.
Furthermore, it's crucial for even those with prior government experience to approach their role with a spirit of continuous learning. The complexities of governance are constantly evolving, and new challenges and opportunities will always emerge. Acknowledging that there is always more to learn – about specific policy areas, the nuances of the legislative process, and the diverse needs of their constituents – fosters a more open-minded and adaptable approach to leadership. This humility and commitment to ongoing education allows legislators to make more informed decisions and to better navigate the intricacies of their responsibilities. Ultimately, the most effective legislators are those who combine a genuine understanding of the people they represent with a proactive and receptive attitude towards the ongoing learning inherent in the role of government.
The ability of legislators to forge meaningful relationships with their colleagues, even across party lines or differing ideologies, is fundamental to effective governance. Recognizing our shared humanity – the common hopes, fears, and aspirations that bind us as individuals – provides a crucial foundation for constructive dialogue and compromise. When legislators see each other not just as political adversaries but as fellow human beings dedicated to serving the public good, it fosters an environment where collaboration becomes more likely and productive.
Building these relationships allows for a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and the challenges facing different regions and demographics within the state. By engaging in open communication and seeking common ground, legislators can move beyond partisan gridlock and work together to develop comprehensive solutions that address the needs of all their people. This collaborative spirit is essential for tackling complex issues that require broad support and innovative thinking. Ultimately, a legislature where members have cultivated strong interpersonal connections is better equipped to find common purpose and deliver effective policies that benefit the entire populace.
Building these relationships allows for a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and the challenges facing different regions and demographics within the state. By engaging in open communication and seeking common ground, legislators can move beyond partisan gridlock and work together to develop comprehensive solutions that address the needs of all their people. This collaborative spirit is essential for tackling complex issues that require broad support and innovative thinking. Ultimately, a legislature where members have cultivated strong interpersonal connections is better equipped to find common purpose and deliver effective policies that benefit the entire populace.
Drawing inspiration from the distinguished career of Louisiana Senator and Representative John Alario, my aspiration as a legislator is to emulate his remarkable ability to build consensus and work effectively with individuals across the political spectrum. His decades of dedicated service stand as a testament to the power of pragmatism and a deep commitment to the betterment of Louisiana. Senator Alario's capacity to forge strong relationships and find common ground, even amidst differing viewpoints, allowed him to be a highly effective advocate for the state and its diverse communities. His long tenure and the significant achievements he secured highlight the importance of experience, coupled with an unwavering dedication to collaboration and a focus on delivering tangible results for the people he served. My aim is to embody that same spirit of cooperation and tireless dedication, always striving to find common ground and work constructively with my colleagues to achieve meaningful progress for Louisiana, much like the esteemed Senator and Representative Alario did throughout his exemplary career.
My priority upon entering the legislature will be to introduce a bill establishing Universal Pre-Kindergarten. This initiative is not merely an educational investment; it's a foundational step towards a more equitable and prosperous Louisiana. By ensuring access to high-quality early childhood education for all four-year-olds, regardless of socioeconomic status, we can foster crucial cognitive, social, and emotional development during a child's most formative years. Research consistently demonstrates that universal pre-K leads to significant long-term benefits, including improved academic outcomes, reduced achievement gaps, lower rates of grade repetition and special education placement, and increased high school graduation rates. Furthermore, it provides invaluable support to working families, allowing parents to participate more fully in the workforce, boosting our economy. This bill will outline a comprehensive framework for a publicly funded, high-quality pre-K system, addressing curriculum standards, teacher qualifications, and equitable access across the state, ultimately laying a stronger foundation for the future success of Louisiana's children and the overall well-being of our communities.
Full accountability and transparency are absolutely fundamental pillars of good governance and essential for maintaining public trust. When government operates in the open, with clear processes and readily available information, it fosters confidence and allows citizens to hold their elected officials and institutions responsible for their actions and decisions. This transparency isn't just about making documents public; it's about clear communication, explaining the rationale behind policies, and being open to scrutiny and feedback. Accountability, in turn, means that there are clear mechanisms in place for addressing mistakes, ensuring that officials are answerable for their conduct, and that there are consequences for breaches of trust or failures in their duties. A government that embraces both accountability and transparency is a government that respects its citizens and strengthens the very foundations of a healthy democracy.
I strongly believe that a state ballot initiative process would be a valuable addition to Louisiana's democratic framework. Introducing a mechanism for citizen-led ballot initiatives empowers the people to directly participate in shaping the laws that govern them, particularly on issues where legislative action may be stalled or unresponsive to public sentiment. This process would allow for important debates and decisions to be made directly by the voters, fostering greater civic engagement and accountability.
A well-designed ballot initiative system would offer a pathway for citizens to propose and enact laws or constitutional amendments, subject to clearly defined requirements, such as gathering a sufficient number of signatures from registered voters across the state. This would provide a check on the legislative process, ensuring that the voices and priorities of the people are heard and considered, even when they diverge from those of elected officials. It would also lead to more public discussion and awareness of key policy issues.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign finance summary
Campaign finance information for this candidate is not yet available from OpenSecrets. That information will be published here once it is available.
See also
2025 Elections
External links
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Candidate Louisiana House of Representatives District 67 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on April 21, 2025
Current members of the Louisiana House of Representatives
Leadership
Speaker of the House:Phillip DeVillier
Representatives
District 1
Danny McCormick (R)
District 2
Steven Jackson (D)
District 3
Tammy Phelps (D)
District 4
Daryl Walters (D)
District 5
Dennis Bamburg (R)
District 6
Michael Melerine (R)
District 7
Lawrence Bagley (R)
District 8
Raymond Crews (R)
District 9
Dodie Horton (R)
District 10
Wayne McMahen (R)
District 11
Rashid Young (D)
District 12
District 13
Jack McFarland (R)
District 14
Michael Echols (R)
District 15
Foy Gadberry (R)
District 16
Adrian Fisher (D)
District 17
Pat Moore (D)
District 18
Jeremy LaCombe (R)
District 19
Francis Thompson (R)
District 20
Neil Riser (R)
District 21
Travis Johnson (D)
District 22
Gabe Firment (R)
District 23
Shaun Mena (D)
District 24
District 25
Jason DeWitt (R)
District 26
Ed Larvadain (D)
District 27
Mike Johnson (R)
District 28
Daryl Deshotel (R)
District 29
Edmond Jordan (D)
District 30
Charles Owen (R)
District 31
Troy Hebert (R)
District 32
Dewith Carrier (R)
District 33
Les Farnum (R)
District 34
Wilford Carter (D)
District 35
Brett Geymann (R)
District 36
Phillip Tarver (R)
District 37
Troy Romero (R)
District 38
Rhonda Butler (R)
District 39
Julie Emerson (R)
District 40
Dustin Miller (D)
District 41
District 42
Chance Henry (R)
District 43
Josh Carlson (R)
District 44
Tehmi Chassion (D)
District 45
Annie Spell (R)
District 46
Chad Boyer (R)
District 47
Ryan Bourriaque (R)
District 48
Beau Beaullieu (R)
District 49
Jacob Landry (R)
District 50
District 51
Beryl Amedée (R)
District 52
Jerome Zeringue (R)
District 53
Jessica Domangue (R)
District 54
Joseph Orgeron (R)
District 55
Bryan Fontenot (R)
District 56
Beth Billings (R)
District 57
Sylvia Taylor (D)
District 58
Ken Brass (D)
District 59
Tony Bacala (R)
District 60
Chad Brown (D)
District 61
Denise Marcelle (D)
District 62
Roy Adams (D)
District 63
District 64
Kellee Dickerson (R)
District 65
Lauren Ventrella (R)
District 66
Emily Chenevert (R)
District 67
Terry Landry (D)
District 68
Dixon McMakin (R)
District 69
Paula Davis (R)
District 70
Barbara Freiberg (R)
District 71
Roger Wilder (R)
District 72
Robby Carter (D)
District 73
District 74
Peter Egan (R)
District 75
John Wyble (R)
District 76
District 77
Mark Wright (R)
District 78
John Illg (R)
District 79
Debbie Villio (R)
District 80
Polly Thomas (R)
District 81
Jeffrey Wiley (R)
District 82
Laurie Schlegel (R)
District 83
Kyle Green (D)
District 84
Timothy Kerner (R)
District 85
Vincent Cox (R)
District 86
District 87
Rodney Lyons (D)
District 88
Kathy Edmonston (R)
District 89
Kim Carver (R)
District 90
Brian Glorioso (R)
District 91
Mandie Landry (D)
District 92
Joe Stagni (R)
District 93
Alonzo Knox (D)
District 94
District 95
Shane Mack (R)
District 96
Marcus Bryant (D)
District 97
Matthew Willard (D)
District 98
Aimee Freeman (D)
District 99
Candace Newell (D)
District 100
Jason Hughes (D)
District 101
District 102
Delisha Boyd (D)
District 103
Michael Bayham (R)
District 104
Jay Gallé (R)
District 105
Jacob Braud (R)
Republican Party (73)
Democratic Party (32)
