Committee backs December runoffs for federal races in 2026; HB4 advances

The special-session committee on Nov. 2025 voted 9–4 to report House Bill 4 favorably, advancing legislation that would require a December runoff in the 2026 general election for offices elected through Louisiana's closed primary system if no candidate obtains 50% plus one of the vote.

Sponsor Representative Baham told the committee HB4 "provides for a runoff in December in our federal elections in 2026...to ensure that a candidate receives a majority vote of the electorate." He repeatedly said the bill does not alter the closed primary adopted earlier in 2024 and called claims otherwise "misinformation."

Lawmakers pressed Baham on logistical concerns. Representative Newell and others asked whether moving a potential runoff to December could delay committee seating or other federal processes; Baham cited Georgia examples and said he prioritized majority support over the timing of committee assignments in Congress. "It's more important that the majority vote is behind who is elected than a parking spot in Congress or a committee seating assignment," Baham said.

Public supporters spoke in favor, saying plurality winners in past congressional contests left voters without a majority mandate. JC Harmon, who testified in support, said HB4 "has lit up my phone" with people upset that some members of Congress were elected without majority support.

The committee recorded 9 yeas and 4 nays on a motion to report HB4 favorably; the bill will move to the floor for further consideration. The committee did not amend HB4 before the vote; next steps are floor scheduling and any additional amendment opportunities.