Marie Riggs Endorses Galen Turner for Alderman
Having served as Alderwoman for Ward 5, I know how important it is to have someone who listens to the people they represent and is willing to work hard for...
invested in ruston's future
Listening Well. Leading Wisely. Building Together.
Ruston has been my home since the day I was born. It is where I learned the value of community, service, and leadership—from my time as a Bearcat and later a Bulldog at Louisiana Tech, to my role today as a geometry teacher and swim coach at Ruston High School. Every opportunity I’ve been given has been shaped by people who believed in me, challenged me, and encouraged me to lead with integrity.
Today, I have the privilege of helping students solve problems, overcome challenges, and prepare for what comes next. That experience has reinforced something I believe deeply: meaningful leadership begins by listening, earning trust, and making thoughtful decisions that create opportunities for others to succeed.
At 24, I’m also in a unique season of life. I have a lot of energy, I’m not married, and I don’t have children yet. That means something pretty simple: I have time. Time to listen. Time to study the issues. Time to attend meetings, answer phone calls, visit neighborhoods, and show up when people need their alderman.
And I want to use that time to serve Ruston.
I’m part of a generation that is increasingly choosing to build its future here. Young professionals are starting careers, buying homes, building businesses, and deciding whether Ruston is where they want to stay. I don’t see my age as the reason someone should vote for me. I see it as an opportunity to bring a perspective to city government that simply isn’t represented right now, while learning from those who have spent decades serving our community.
As Ruston continues to grow, I want to help ensure Ward 5 shares in that momentum. By investing in infrastructure, strengthening community partnerships, leading with transparency, and planning beyond the next four years, we can continue building a city where families, businesses, students, and future generations thrive together.
Prepared to Serve. Ready to Lead.
Years Proud to Call Ruston Home
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Students Taught & Mentored
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Outstanding Senator of the Year
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Years of Vision Beyond the Next Election
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Building a Stronger Ward 5
As Ruston continues to grow, every neighborhood should share in that progress. My priorities are centered on practical solutions that strengthen our community today while preparing Ward 5 for the future.
campaign conversations
Connecting Ward 5: A Greenway for All of Ruston
One of my favorite things about Ruston is that our city continues to grow while feeling like home. As Ruston grows, we must think differently about how people get around.
Healthcare Excellence: Why Not Ruston?
Imagine a family in Ruston in the year 2066. Their child needs specialized care. Instead of driving two or three hours, they drive ten minutes.
Community Voices
Every campaign begins with a conversation. As I've spent time meeting with neighbors, educators, business owners, and community leaders, I've been grateful for the encouragement, ideas, and support they've shared along the way. Their perspectives continue to shape this campaign, and I'm honored to have their confidence as we work toward a stronger future for Ward 5.
Marie Riggs
One thing I especially admire about Galen is his willingness to serve. At 24 years old, he is in a season of life where he has the time and energy to give Ward 5 the attention it deserves. He is ready to listen, show up, and work on the issues that matter to our residents. I believe we need more young people like Galen who are willing to step up and serve their hometown.
