Republican John Schroder of Covington was elected as Louisiana’s state treasurer, during the runoff election held Saturday.

Schroder received 56 percent of the state’s votes, while Democratic Party candidate and New Orleans attorney Derrick Edwards earned 44 percent.

Turnout was low, as just 12.5 percent of eligible voters participated in Saturday’s election.

Schroder fills the position vacated by U.S. Sen. John N. Kennedy, who left the treasurer post in January. Ron Henson has been the interim treasurer since Kennedy joined the Senate, and was not eligible to run for the permanent position.

Schroder will have a shortened initial term of two years, and will run again for the office in 2019.

Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards congratulated Schroder on his victory.

“Donna and I would like to congratulate John and Ellie on this victory. Louisiana has faced tremendous challenges over the years, but the state’s record employment growth, budget surpluses, and historic economic development projects indicate that we are on the cusp of some of our most prosperous days,” he said. “John and I share a commitment to a more efficient and transparent state government, and I look forward to partnering with him. We offer our prayers and support to John as he transitions into this new role.”

In Washington Parish, a total of 2,501 voters participated in the treasurer runoff election, a turnout of just 9.0 percent. Schroder won with 68 percent of the parish’s vote (1,694 votes), while Edwards had 32 percent (807 votes).

In other election results, all three millage renewals passed among Bogalusa City Schools district voters. Each of the tax proposals had at least 68 percent voting in favor of renewal.

The millage rates will continue for another 10 years.