It was a sold out crowd Wednesday, July 10 at the monthly Natchitoches Area Chamber of Commerce luncheon as they hosted an Insurance Commissioner’s Forum.

Chamber President Laura Lyles welcomed the crowd and introduced local dignitaries before allowing each candidate to address the crowd and introduce themselves. Current Commissioner of Insurance, James Donelon was in attendance as well as his opponent, Tim Temple of Baton Rouge.

Soon after the pleasantries the tough questions came forth.

Each candidate was given three minutes to answer questions that were submitted by various Chamber members. The questions ranged from addressing the current need for Tort Reform to the state of our insurance climate since Hurricane Katrina.

The most lively debate came when the candidates discussed the current commercial auto insurance crisis in our state. The candidates then fielded questions from the members present at the meeting.

The spirited town hall meeting came to a close as the candidates were met with the challenging question of the day. “What is your absolute favorite thing about Natchitoches”?

Commissioner Donelon said he loved the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, the food and Cane River. Tim Temple said, his favorite memories of Natchitoches will always be coming to the Christmas Festival and enjoying the fireworks.

The election for Louisiana Insurance Commissioner will be held October 12, 2019.

---