After a month of waiting since the results of the 2025 Spring Election sent Jenny Richardson Fore and Jessica Ledet to a runoff for 21st Judicial District Judge, Division I, the public has an answer.
The newest judge on the 21st bench will be Richardson Fore, who claimed 63% (13,323) across the three-parish area the judicial district covers - Livingston, Tangipahoa, and St. Helena - as compared to Ledet, who took 37% (7,728). The unofficial turnout was 11.8%, down 6% from the spring election.
Both candidates took their home parishes, but it was the larger populations in Livingston and Tangipahoa - both of which Richardson Fore took - which pushed her into the top spot across the region and placing another judge from Livingston Parish on the bench.
The voting broke down as follows:
Fore claimed Livingston and Tangipahoa, while Ledet took St. Helena. (Bold indicates winner)
In the Spring Election, Fore claimed Livingston and Tangipahoa, while Ledet took St. Helena. (Bold indicates winner)
Richardson Fore has worked closely with outgoing Judge Blair Edwards for more than 10 years, being an indispensable part of the juvenile drug court program and helping implement trauma training programs for families and child victims. She has served as the one of the court’s lead liaisons with the district’s school systems and public counseling service programs, including the tri-parish’s Families in Need of Services (FINS) and Truancy Assessment and Service Centers (TASC).
“I know first-hand the importance of maintaining a court system that protects our children and works to provide families with the guidance and resources they need to have healthy, safe homes,” Richardson Fore said. “I will continue to lead our juvenile court with the personal care and attention our children need, and with unwavering toughness against those who would neglect and harm our most vulnerable citizens.”
As Juvenile Judge, Richardson Fore will prioritize rehabilitation and education for young people who need to be given skills to avoid repeat offenses, fairness and justice to families by examining each case on its own merits, and strong community connections to support better networks for local families.
“I have dedicated my legal career to understanding the unique challenges faced by young people. I have worked closely with families, educators, and community organizations to create environments where children can thrive,” she said.
Fore has received local support in her bid for the 21st Judicial District Court Juvenile Judge position. A seasoned public defender and lifelong Republican from Denham Springs, Fore's candidacy has been endorsed by Livingston Parish President Randy Delatte, Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard, Livingston Parish Tax Assesor Jeff Taylor, and District 71 State Representative Roger Wilder.
