TTT Reporting
May 13, 2024
The natural landscapes of Washington Parish, dotted with rolling hills and tall pines, have a unique charm that drew John Wyble to this community over three decades ago. Now, as a first-year State Representative, Wyble is channeling his love for the region and its people into a bold vision for the future.
Wyble’s story begins in Port Barre, a small community in St. Landry Parish. He moved to Washington Parish in his early twenties, where the local community warmly embraced him. “The people are what I love most about Washington Parish,” Wyble reflects. “I was embraced by some of the most loving, generous people when I moved here. The beautiful countryside also won me over—the rolling hills and tall pines starkly contrasted the flat, low-lying land where I grew up.”
Married to Misty Graves, whose family has been part of the Hayes Creek Community for at least five generations, Wyble’s ties to the region are both personal and profound. This connection fuels his commitment to the parish and his belief in its potential for growth and prosperity.
Before stepping into his role as a State Representative, Wyble dedicated his career to improving outcomes for children and families. As the CEO of The Center for Literacy & Learning, he championed education and organizational leadership, a role he finds immensely fulfilling.
His tenure on the Washington Parish School Board, where he served for 13 years, including five as President, also honed his leadership skills. “My entire career has been centered around improving outcomes for children and families,” Wyble said. “These experiences have prepared me for my current role by teaching me the importance of balancing long-term goals with immediate needs.”
Transitioning to state government, Wyble found his advocacy and lobbyist background invaluable. “I had a distinct advantage coming into the role of State Representative,” he explains. Despite the challenges posed by a new Governor and significant turnover in the legislature, Wyble feels privileged to serve among 34 freshman Representatives, a group characterized by diverse experiences and a shared commitment to improving Louisiana.
The political alignment of the House, Senate, and Governor’s seats with his party brings opportunities and pressures. “There’s no excuse for not being bullish on the reforms that have been discussed for generations,” Wyble said.
He campaigned on structural reform, emphasizing the need for a constitutional convention, education reform, insurance reform, workforce and economic development realignment, and infrastructure improvements. “Let’s simplify life for citizens and businesses alike and streamline processes,” he urges.
As for future political aspirations, Wyble remains focused on the present. “It sounds cliché, but I am so focused on this session and what we can accomplish before the end of 2024,” he said.
He is committed to serving as long as he feels he can make a positive difference, and any decisions about his political future will come in due course. “As long as I feel like I can make a positive difference for all citizens, I will continue to serve where God leads me.”
Wyble’s vision for Washington Parish and Louisiana as a whole is one of growth, prosperity, and streamlined processes that make life simpler and better for everyone. His journey from Port Barre to Washington Parish, from educator to advocate, and now as a State Representative, is a testament to his dedication to service and his unwavering commitment to his community.
With leaders like John Wyble, the future of Washington Parish and Louisiana looks promising. As he continues to champion reforms and improvements, residents can look forward to a period of positive change and development under his watchful and passionate leadership.