NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The mayor's election is months away, but one issue divides at least two of the candidates, and that’s how the superintendent of the New Orleans Police Department is chosen. City Councilman Oliver Thomas believes the public should have a hand in electing the city's next po lice chief. Holy Cross neighbors receive support from council members in fight against grain terminal Thomas publicly stated, “Chief Anne Kirkpatrick has certainly earned the right to be considered, but under my leadership, the superintendent will be accountable to the people, not just the mayor.” His remarks didn’t sit well with his opponent, Arthur Hunter, a former police officer and judge. Hunter called a press conference on Wednesday afternoon in front of NOPD Headquarters. There, he said public input could potentially politicize the role and threaten public safety. “You have to protect your community,” said Hunter. “You also have to make sure people are safe and that you're safe as well, and dealing with inside politics to add to that mix will not lead to a city that we can protect.” Health officials working to expand access to home-visiting programs Kirkpatrick was selected by Mayor LaToya Cantrell in 2023 to serve as NOPD's superintendent following a national search led by the International Police Association. Thomas was the only council member who voted against Kirkpatrick’s confirmation. WGNO reached out to both offices of Thomas and Council Vice President Helena Moreno, who’s also running for mayor, for comment, and we have not yet heard back. Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Time running out for Mexico to pay water debt to US Shreveport Police Department searching for runaway child Kroger offering discount for residents in Northwest Louisiana Washington researchers warn of serious decline in honey bee colonies in 2025 New Social Security clawback policy starts this week: What to know ...read more read less