District Attorney John Belton has made history in North Louisiana. Now, after years of public service, he’s preparing to step away from elected office. Belton, the first Black district attorney in North Louisiana, announced he won’t seek reelection when his current term ends in 2026.
The 61-year-old leader has served Lincoln and Union parishes since 2014. He won reelection without opposition in 2020, a sign of the trust and respect he earned from his community.
“I can’t say enough about my family and my community who have supported me,” Belton shared in an interview. “Jesus said the greatest calling on earth is to serve, and it’s a great honor for me to have served and continue to serve my community.”
A Life of Public Service and Strong Family Ties
John Belton’s career in law and leadership has always been guided by faith and family. He and his wife, Alana, own six Wingstop restaurants along Interstate 20, from Monroe to Shreveport. They’ve balanced their business ventures while raising two accomplished children.
Their son, JR Belton, works as the director of football operations at LSU in Baton Rouge. Their daughter, Alexis Belton, is a professional golfer living in Atlanta.
Even as he steps away from public office, Belton plans to remain active in his community. He will continue leadership roles with groups like the Boys & Girls Club, Teach 1 to Lead 1, and Ministries of Justice. These programs help uplift and guide young people, a cause close to his heart.
Honoring His Father’s Civil Rights Legacy
Belton’s life and work have been deeply shaped by his father, Willie Belton. Willie was a decorated Korean War veteran who earned both a Bronze Star and Purple Heart. But he was also a Civil Rights activist who marched with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., protested in Selma, and risked his safety to meet with King in Alexandria, Louisiana.
“He told me, ‘I fought for the Koreans’ freedom and then had to fight for my own rights when I came home,’” Belton once said. “But he also believed this was still the greatest country in the world and worked to make it better.”
John Belton carries that spirit forward through the Willie Belton Hero Hunt, an event created in his father’s memory. The program honors veterans while continuing the fight for justice and equality.
Breaking Ground as a Leader and Role Model
Before entering law and politics, Belton made history in his youth. He was the first Black homecoming king at Basile High School in Evangeline Parish. That early achievement marked the start of a lifetime breaking new ground.
Later, he served as the first Black president of the Louisiana District Attorneys Association. He has long believed in the power of representation but says his work is driven by his Christian faith rather than race.
“I believe holding this position has allowed young people to see anything is possible through Christ,” Belton said. “Never let man define who you are. Let God’s word define you.”
Looking Ahead to New Chapters
Although he won’t seek reelection, Belton isn’t slowing down. He’ll continue managing his businesses and mentoring others. His influence will still be felt through community programs, civic organizations, and efforts like the Hero Hunt.
Belton’s story stands as a powerful example of how one person’s faith, leadership, and commitment to service can shape a community. As North Louisiana prepares for its next district attorney, John Belton’s legacy of courage and care will remain.
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