Annie Spell to Represent Louisiana House District 45 Without an E

LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) - Over the past few years, Louisiana voters have seen their fair share of heated elections. Some races have been routine, while others have stirred controversy.

Lafayette Parish residents were particularly engaged in the recent special election for the District 23 State Senate seat in February, where Brach Myers (R-Lafayette) emerged victorious. Myers filled the vacancy left by J.P. Coussan, who was elected to the Public Service Commission.

That Senate race gained attention after one campaign manager was arrested on election fraud charges. However, for House District 45, there will be no such drama—Annie Wingate Spell was the only candidate to qualify for the seat, meaning no election will be held.

Annie Spell’s Statement After Qualifying

Following the qualification deadline, Spell took to Facebook to express her gratitude, saying:

“I’m incredibly honored and truly humbled by this resounding vote of confidence from the people of Lafayette. I look forward to going to the State Capitol to be District 45’s voice in the Legislature and work hand-in-hand with all of you to move Louisiana forward.”

Who Is Annie Spell?

A Lafayette native, Spell attended the Academy of the Sacred Heart at Grand Coteau before earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. She later obtained her doctorate from Louisiana State University.

According to her campaign website, Spell has been actively involved in numerous community organizations, including: