Arthur Hunter , a retired New Orleans judge who mounted a long-shot run for mayor, is set to end his campaign Thursday and endorse an opponent, state Sen. Royce Duplessis, according to a person familiar with the plan.

Hunter is set to unveil the decision at a press conference at 1:30.

Since joining the race in February, Hunter struggled to carve a path to victory. He raised over $120,000 since launching the campaign with no cash, but fundraising remained a challenge. A recent poll ranked him last among four major mayoral candidates.

Rather than continue on in the race, Hunter will throw his support behind Duplessis, said the person familiar with the plan. The person said Hunter intends to announce a level of support for Duplessis beyond a typical endorsement, with potential plans to hi

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