BATON ROUGE, La. (UrbanCast: 7/7/2026) — Louisiana State Sen. Larry Selders has died at the age of 44.
Selders represented Louisiana’s 14th Senate District, which includes parts of Baton Rouge. He was elected to the State Senate in a 2025 special election after former Sen. Cleo Fields vacated the seat to serve in Congress.
According to multiple reports, Selders collapsed during an event Tuesday evening. Officials have not released an official cause of death.
Earlier this year, Selders underwent a seven-hour surgery after doctors discovered an aneurysm in his heart. In May 2026, he shared that he was recovering from the procedure.
Leaders across Louisiana quickly offered condolences following news of his passing.
Gov. Jeff Landry wrote, “Sharon and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of State Senator Larry Selders. He was a gentle giant who was respected by all. We will hold him and his family in our prayers.”
State Sen. Jay Luneau also paid tribute.
“Larry was a wonderful person and a great Senator,” Luneau said. “He had the ability to work with everyone. He will be missed beyond measure. Prayers for his precious family.”
State Rep. Gabe Firment reflected on Selders’ character and the respect they shared despite political differences.
“Although we often found ourselves on opposite sides of policy debates, we never let politics get in the way of treating one another with kindness and respect,” Firment said. He described Selders as “a gentle spirit” who deeply loved his family, adding, “Louisiana has lost a good man far too soon.”
Before joining the Senate, Selders served in the Louisiana House of Representatives. He later won the Senate seat vacated by U.S. Rep. Cleo Fields following Fields’ election to Congress.
Selders was widely respected by colleagues on both sides of the aisle for his commitment to public service and the people he represented.
UrbanCast extends its condolences to Sen. Selders’ family, friends, colleagues, and constituents during this difficult time. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.
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