Highlights from May 09 2008 |
|
 |
The Windfall Challenge
After today's meeting of the Revenue Estimating Conference, legislators anticipate having $250 million or more to spend in the coming budget, but the governor has served notice that he won't let them do it.
Gov. Bobby Jindal announced Wednesday that instead of extra spending, he wants the new recurring revenue to go to replace $420 million in one-time money in his proposed budget. Then he wants to set aside that freed-up one-time money to form a surplus not to be spent until next year.
His enforcer is the constitutional spending cap. There is only room under it for $40 million more in the current fiscal year and $116 million more in the budget bill. To lift the cap would take a two-thirds vote of both houses, which the governor's allies can easily block in the House.
The governor's next and harder challenge will be to both rein in and make room for the major income tax cut bill to be voted in House Ways & Means Committee on Monday.
Calongne, Roemer Consider Running for Congress
Though Woody Jenkins, who lost the 6th Congressional District race to Don Cazayoux, is keeping open his options of running again in the fall, the new congressman might face another Republican challenger.
Laurinda Calongne, whom Jenkins beat in the GOP primary, says in a statement she is "very likely to run in November."
Also, Board of Elementary and Secondary Education member Chas Roemer, 38-year-old son of former Gov. Buddy Roemer, said he will decide about running in the next two weeks.
Rep. Hunter Greene, R-Baton Rouge, is not running, sticking to the decision he made for the special election.
Jindal VP Buzz Continues
Despite his own disclaimers and experts' arguments of why it won't happen, speculation persists that Gov. Bobby Jindal will be Sen. John McCain's running mate this fall.
Now McCain's staff is putting Jindal's name out there, according to New York Times columnist William Kristol. He wrote this week that in separate conversations four McCain staffers and advisers mentioned Jindal as a possible vice-presidential pick. Those comments came after McCain and Jindal spent time together in New Orleans recently, with observers noting the chemistry between the two.
They Said It
"We're not telling you you can't go crazy. You can."
--Facility Planning director Jerry Jones on changing the capital outlay process
Also in This Issue
How Cazayoux Won 6th; Landrieu Claims Breakthrough on Levees; Scholarship Bill Hits Resistance; PSC Candidate Wants Sales Tax Holiday; Lining Up for Special Elections; More Quotes
Highlights from May 02 2008 |
|
|
Jindal on the Spot
On the day after Gov. Bobby Jindal told Jay Leno audience about business tax cuts he has signed, his floorleaders were unable to stop a deeper income tax slice bill in the Senate, potentially costing the treasury $300 million. The best they could do was to load it up with an amendment to phase out the entire $3 billion income tax over ten years, which is supposed to make the original bill unpassable in the House.
Jindal responded that he will sign a tax reduction bill that is accompanied by spending cuts. Yet he finds himself in the untenable position of having to work with Democratic legislators to thwart the cause championed by his Republican allies and legions of his voters.
As it stands, the massive tax-cut bill now heads to a more receptive House, starting in the GOP-laden Ways & Means Committee. While no one expects the whole income tax will be nixed, Chairman Hunter Greene, R-Baton Rouge, says members support efforts to go beyond the Stelly reductions in the original bill.
"I don't know how we would vote against it," said Greene.
Cazayoux Leads Poll, But Turnout Is Question Mark
In the 6th Congressional District race, an independent poll shows Democrat Don Cazayoux opening up a 50-41 percent lead over Republican Woody Jenkins. But a likely stronger turnout by whites and older voters could narrow or close the gap for Jenkins.
Roll Call Magazine of Washington commissioned Survey USA to do an automated phone poll of 501 likely voters on April 27-29. But identifying who votes in the projected low-turnout election continues to make this race very unpredictable.
Giant Gas Play Pumps Millions into NW La.
A potentially massive natural gas play stretching over five parishes in northwest Louisiana is putting millions of dollars of lease payments into the hands of elated landowners.
"It's like really big, bigger than anything we're ever seen," said Don Briggs, president of Louisiana Oil and Gas Association, of the formation called the Haynesville Shale.
He reports landowners receiving lease payments of $4,000 to $5,000 per acre for land that was bringing no more than $200 per acre a year ago.
According to Briggs, Chesapeake Energy Corporation, the nation's third largest producer of natural gas, has quietly leased 200,000 acres in North Louisiana with a goal of owning up to 500,000 acres in Caddo, Bossier, Webster, DeSoto and Red River parishes.
They Said It
"I'm an attorney. I have a tendency to be a jerk."
--Sen. Danny Martiny
Also in This Issue
More on Jindal's dilemma with tax cut bill; Michael Jackson on TV, but not to endorse Democrat; Competition for Last Superdelegate; Iberville Racino to be Governor's Call; Disclosure Laws Might Cause Board Resignations; Speed Trap Bill on New Road; More Quotes
Highlights from April 25 2008 |
|
|
Black Legislators Eye Congress
The state Democratic Party's hopes of winning long-held GOP congressional seats could be undermined by plans discussed by three black legislators to run as independents this fall in the 4th, 6th and 7th congressional districts. Sen. Lydia Jackson of Shreveport, Rep. Michael Jackson of Baton Rouge and Sen. Don Cravins Jr. of Opelousas say there are seriously considering bypassing the Democratic primary to file as independents on the November general election ballot.
In that way, they could take advantage of the Obama-driven minority turnout without having to first survive a Democratic primary or two against better-funded white candidates. Other Democrats worry that the legislators' strategy would split party voters and enable Republicans to hold the seats.
Kennedy Seeks Wall St. Money at NY Fundraiser
After President Bush helped Senate candidate John Kennedy raise $800,000 at a Baton Rouge event this week, the state treasurer hopes that Wall Street comes through for him next week.
He holds a fundraising event at the New York Athletic Club on Wednesday. The suggested contribution is $2,300.
Jindal to Sign Stelly Change If Budget Is Cut
Backed into supporting a bill to cut up to $300 million in income taxes, Gov. Jindal told a Shreveport radio station he will sign the bill if it reaches his desk. But he wants the Legislature to make the budget cuts to keep it in balance.
On Tuesday, the Senate debates what has suddenly become the hottest bill of the session, SB 87, which would lower the income tax brackets to the levels before they were increased by the Stelly tax swap plan of 2002. The potentially severe fiscal impact of the bill caused the Jindal administration to oppose it in Revenue & Fiscal Affairs Committee on Monday. That stand caused Jindal to be blistered on conservative talk radio, where reversing the increases from the Stelly plan has been a cause celebre since it was enacted.
They Said It
"The cleavage is getting to where you could write a book and put the book in the cleavage."
--Sen. Yvonne Dorsey on young fashions, in the Advocate
Also in This Issue
More on the above stories, plus: 6th District Candidates Pounded in Ads; McCain's Man in Louisiana; Fielkow Tops Congressional Poll in N.O.; Public Invited to Comment on Budget; Tuition Increase Looms as Budget Battle; Indicted Lawyer Claims Bribes Paid; More Quotes
LaPolitics Weekly
Next week the Louisiana Political Fax Weekly becomes LaPolitics Weekly. Nothing else changes.
Highlights from April 18 2008 |
|
|
Landrieu Leads Poll, But Which Poll?
It was a roller-coaster ride in the polls for Sen. Mary Landrieu this week, ending with an independent survey showing her leading Treasurer John Kennedy, 50-38 percent.
Republican Kennedy, meanwhile, focuses on fundraising, with President Bush coming to Baton Rouge for an event on Tuesday.
On Monday, the Landrieu campaign touted a poll done for the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee showing the incumbent opening a 55-39 percent lead on Kennedy. An aide called back to report there had been a mistake by which another poll's results were reported for the Louisiana survey. The correct Rasmussen Reports poll showed Landrieu leading only 47-46 percent.
Fortunately for Landrieu, later that day Southern Media released its results of a Senate question asked in a poll for a business client, showing Landrieu's 12-point lead.
Grigsby to Launch Ads Against Cazayoux
Next week, Baton Rouge contractor Lane Grigsby, who has made third-party expenditures before, says he will launch a media campaign to defeat congressional candidate Don Cazayoux. Grigsby reason is "where he gets his money from," referring to national labor unions that have given to the Democrat. The ads will be produced by consultant George Kennedy.
The Cazayoux campaign released an internal poll this week showing him leading Republican Woody Jenkins, 49-42 percent.
Ethics Environment Both Bane and Boon for Blossman
Public Service Commissioner Jay Blossman, hit with an ethics complaint as he prepares for his re-election campaign in the fall, could yet be saved by the strict new ethics environment. Several trucking companies, which are regulated by the PSC, complained about a letter from Blossman on official stationery asking them to meet with a salesman friend who is selling tracking devices.
But in an odd ethics twist, former Sen. Ken Hollis, R-Metairie, who has been considering challenging Blossman, now says that the new financial disclosure law is discouraging him from running.
The owner of an insurance management company says he would have to disclose the commissions of $1,000 or more he receives from over 150 clients. "My CPA told me you'll have to hire three CPAs full-time to keep up with this." he said. "I don't know if it's worth it."
They Said It
"This has evolved into a political drive-by shooting, and I'm not sure who's holding the gun."
--Sen. Lydia Jackson on adjutant general controversy, in the Picayune
Also in This Issue
The Generals and Jindal: political blow-up shadows his soaring approval ratings; Chief of staff and former governor's actions questioned; Shepherd's indictment has candidates eyeing congressional race; Capital outlay refomr to get new lead reformer; Oil & gas group sues state tax commission; Everything you need to know about counter letters; Museum backers seek shift in oversight; More quotes
Highlights from April 10 2008 |
|
|
House Leaders Seek Cuts
House leaders are asking the administration to trim its spending plan by over $400 million in order not to use any one-time money on operating expenses. Appropriations Committee Chairman Jim Fannin, D-Jonesboro, has sent a letter to agency heads asking them to recommend five percent reductions in next year's funding by Friday. Fannin estimates this will free up $200 million to $240 million. He hopes to save an equal amount by asking the governor to reduce by half the estimated $500 million in new and expanded programs included in his executive budget.
While he expects to the cooperation of agencies, he added, "If they choose not to, we will do it."
McCrery Backs Newcomer To Succeed Him
Rep. Wayne Waddell, R-Shreveport, went into a meeting with Congressman Jim McCrery at the State Capitol on Tuesday expecting to get his support in the fall election to fill his 4th District seat. But the three-term legislator was surprised and chagrined when McCrery told him he would instead back Bossier City attorney Jeff Thompson.
McCrery released a statement Wednesday endorsing Thompson, who is considered a political comer in GOP circles.
6th District Contest Starts Off Even
Democrat Don Cazayoux has a poll showing him leading Republican Woody Jenkins, 49-44 percent, at the start of the 6th Congressional District general election campaign to be decided May 3. Many observers believe the final margin will be closer either way.
A decisive factor in this election will be which groups are less motivated to vote: moderate Republicans who consider Jenkins too extreme or African-Americans without a black candidate to support.
They Said It
"Sometimes you can be so confused, you don't know you're confused."
--Sen. Troy Hebert
Also in This Issue
Administration not committing to budget cuts; Lining up for Scalise's seat; Generals Insulted by Chief of Staff; Legislators dissatisfied with no construction money; The Voting Sticks; Fear Factor: House and Senate; More quotes.
Highlights from April 04 2008 |
|
|
Business Blasts Action by Jindal Tax Appointees
Shortly after getting the Legislature to grant major tax breaks to business, Gov. Jindal finds himself caught in the middle of a raging controversy between the oil and gas industry and the new state Tax Commission he appointed. Unless Jindal can prevail on his appointees to change a recent policy reversal favored by parish assessors, an industry source says a lawsuit will be filed against the commission.
The matter concerning depreciation of obsolete equipment came to light in a blistering newspaper column by LABI President Dan Juneau, who wrote that powerful assessors engineered the state association's endorsement of Jindal in hopes of reversing the obsolescence decision through his new appointees.
Landrieu Tries to Take Over Museum Board
Members of the State Museum Board are fighting a bill that would give Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu control of its operations and move its domicile from New Orleans to Baton Rouge.
SB 311 by Sen. Ed Murray, D-New Orleans, would allow the lieutenant governor to appoint the entire board and to hire and fire the director, which the board currently does.
They Said It
"This is a good bill. It's one sentence."
--Secretary of State Jay Dardenne on bill to abolish the July election date
Also in This Issue
More handicapping on congressional races; Are feds closing in on Shepherd?; Conservatives criticize Jindal spending; New college funding formula sought; Jindal in Esquire; More quotes
Highlights from March 28 2008 |
|
|
Senate Race Warming Up
In his challenge to Sen. Mary Landrieu, Treasurer John Kennedy hopes to narrow the financial gap with the help of President George Bush. Bush is coming to Baton Rouge for an April 22 fundraiser for Kennedy, co-sponsored by the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Tickets are $2,000.
Landrieu hopes to make use of the president's visit as well, challenging her supporters in an e-mail to match whatever Bush raises with contributions to her campaign.
Helmet Supporter Removed From Safety Commission
The mandatory motorcycle helmet law has lost its staunchest advocate with the replacement of long-time Highway Safety Commission director Jim Champagne. The governor has appointed State Police Lt. Col. John LeBlanc, a 30-year veteran who was head of the patrol section. He does not take a position on a motorcycle repeal bill filed by Sen. Eric LaFleur, D-Ville Platte.
McCrery Answers Resignation Rumor
The hot political rumor of the week was that Congressman Jim McCrery, R-Shreveport, would announce his early resignation next week instead of serving out his term.
McCrery put that to rest, for now, through press secretary Dan Turner, who said the congressman "is not making any big announcement next week." McCrery said in December he would not seek re-election.
They Said It
"At what point are we going to say New Orleans is not a place where you can live in a trailer as a lifestyle choice?"
--Councilwoman Stacy Head on efforts to clear the city of 7,200 FEMA trailers, in the Picayune
Also in This Issue
BR GOP Money on Sidelines; Scalise Raises More Money, Questions Burns' Sources; Democrats Still Seek Opponent for Boustany; Ports to Oppose Bill to Consolidate Them; Legislators Rush to Raise Money Before Session; More Quotes
Highlights from March 20 2008 |
|
|
Ethics Charges Fly in 1st District
The Republican runoff candidates in the 1st Congressional District are waging an increasingly negative campaign, each accusing the other of ethical lapses.
Sen. Steve Scalise of Metairie led Rep. Tim Burns of Mandeville, 48-28 percent, in the first primary, with Slidell Mayor Ben Morris trailing at 21 percent. Morris hasn't decided on endorsing a candidate.
With the two rivals so close on conservative issues, they have sniped at each other over missed votes, contributors, family business dealings with local governments and use of state e-mail addresses.
The runoff has been framed along the divide between the north shore and the south shore. But another division runs between suburban St. Tammany Parish, which Burns carried, and mostly rural Tangipahoa Parish, where Scalise led.
Paul Carmouche Declares For Congress in 4th
District Attorney Paul Carmouche of Shreveport has announced he will run for Congress in the 4th District this fall as a Democrat. Carmouche, 64, announced his pending retirement as district attorney only last month but soon after became interested in launching a second political career.
Democrats are excited at having a well-known vote-getter in their quest to turn the seat now held by retiring GOP Congressman Jim McCrery. But how much party unity they can look forward to will depend on Sen. Lydia Jackson of Shreveport, who says she is strongly considering the race.
Republicans who have announced are Chris Gorman and Dr. John Fleming.
Conservatives Look to Shift Balance of Supreme Court
Though getting less attention than the fall's congressional contests, the Supreme Court campaign in the New Orleans area figures to be the most critical judicial election in years.
Republicans and business interests see the historic chance to shift the state Supreme Court's balance to conservative with the retirement of Chief Justice Pascal Calogero, who is considered more liberal on liability and tax issues.
Leading business group LABI weighed in this week with its area PAC endorsement of Judge Greg Guidry of Jefferson Parish, a Republican on the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeal. He is running against First Circuit Judge Jimmy Kuhn of Hammond, a Republican, and Fourth Circuit Judge Roland Belsome of New Orleans, a Democrat.
They Said It
"Are we carving out an exclusion for an industry that regularly criticizes us for carving out exclusions?"
--Rep. Hollis Downs on tax exclusion for newspapers
Also in This Issue
6th District Candidate Uses Hillary Clinton in Ad; N.O. Congressional Race Gets Murkier; Healthcare Reform Might Be Put Off Until Fall; DA Elections in Largest Parishes; BR Mayor Seeking Re-election, Tax Vote
Highlights from March 14 2008 |
|
|
Special Session Express
In contrast to how lawmakers slowed down the last special session to grapple with thorny ethics legislation, in this session they are stepping on the gas in hopes of finishing today or Saturday.
Yet questions and frustrations about the administration's spending plans and communications with legislators could spark a fight in the Senate--possibly a revolt--when it takes up the $1.1 billion appropriations bill today.
Cargo Airport Project Could Be Grounded
The effort to build a giant cargo airport along the Mississippi River may have reached the end of its runway without taking off.
The Jindal administration did not include in its executive budget operating funds for the Louisiana Airport Authority, which could put it out of business before a spade of dirt is turned on the intermodal transportation center.
Sen. Jody Amedee, D-Gonzales, said he will meet with Economic Development Secretary Stephen Moret, who has been put in charge of mega-projects like the LTC. "Blanco gave it enough to keep it alive," said Amedee. "It will be up to the next administration to decide if it survives."
Mayor Cravins Joins Race For Democratic Chairman
A two-way race for Democratic party chairman has ballooned into a six-man field, including the late entry of Opelousas Mayor Don Cravins Sr.
Before Saturday's election is held, opponents of chairman Chris Whittington will challenge his filling 27 of 41 vacancies on the 210-seat Democratic State Central Committee with his appointees.
Besides Cravins and Whittington, candidates are: Paul Aucoin of Vacherie, Shreveporters Larry Ferdinand and Dr. Steve Kirkikis, and former Rep. Willie Sumlin of Rayville.
They Said It
"Mr. President, I know we've been discussing this for a long time. I've been to the bathroom twice and I have to go again."
--Sen. Buddy Shaw
Also in This Issue
Foot in Back Door to Vouchers; Scalise's Base Denies Him Victory; Will Jenkins-Calongne Runoff Go Negative?; In 6th, 2 Democratic Friends Will Try to Stay That Way; Research Center Money Targeted by Senators; BR in Fast Lane for Interstate Expansion; Eliot Spitzer Sighting; More Quotes
Highlights from March 07 2008 |
|
|
6th District GOP Race Ends on Nasty Note
Two candidates' polls show Woody Jenkins close to winning the Republican nomination tomorrow in the 6th Congressional District.
A tracking poll Jenkins commissioned from Washington Political Group, averaged over three nights between Feb. 26 and March 1, showed: Jenkins, 51 percent; Laurinda Calongne, 16; Sawyer, 14.
A 300-sample Magellan poll done for Calongne on March 5 shows: Jenkins, 47 percent; Calongne, 20; Sawyer, 15.
Toss-Up for Democrats
The Democratic primary in the 6th defies prediction, given the short campaign, lesser known candidates and no pattern to gauge special election turnout.
The only poll numbers come from the Jenkins campaign, which is gauging Democratic strength. Its tracking poll from last weekend shows Rep. Don Cazayoux of New Roads leading in the high teens and three Baton Rouge candidates--Rep. Michael Jackson, Jason Decuir and Andy Kopplin--statistically tied in low to sub-teens.
Session Schedule Irks Lawmakers
Compared to the general grumbling and extensive haggling over the ethics special session, the most common complaint about the second session is its scheduled three-week length, which is disrupting Easter vacation travel for lawmakers. Though legislators are confident the session can be wrapped up before Good Friday, March 21, they can't plan on going anywhere before March 28, so they are having to cancel flights and reservations.
They Said It
"We don't care what kind of movie you make, within reason."
--Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu on movie tax credits
Also in This Issue
The Dessert Session; First Step Toward Vouchers; Scalise Drives for Primary win; GOP Legislator Eyes 4th Congressional District; Tax Shift Not Enough for Some Legislators; LSU President Joins Governor's Chorus; The Wit and Wisdom of Sixty Rayburn
Highlights from February 29 2008 |
|
|
State Zooms to No. 1 In Disclosure Rankings
Surpassing even the governor's own expectations, Louisiana shot up to No. 1 in the country in financial disclosure for public officials, as ranked by the Center for Public Integrity.
With its new laws, Louisiana scores 99 out of 100 on the CPI index, placing it ahead of formerly No. 1 Washington state at 93. Two years ago, Louisiana's score was 43, placing it in the bottom five.
Despite Sawyer Ad, Baker Says He Is Neutral
Confusion has developed over whether former Congressman Richard Baker is supporting his former aide Sawyer. The candidate's new radio commercial and direct mail piece use a letter from Baker, which states, "I'm supporting Paul Sawyer for Congress."
When first contacted, Baker said he had not heard the spot but that "I know I haven't written a letter of that sort."
Sawyer insists Baker did so and approved the language last week.
"That's troubling," said Baker when the Fax Weekly contacted him again. He believes a mixup occurred when he received a photo of Sawyer and himself and sent it back saying it would be fine to use it. "Apparently attached was a document which I did not review," said Baker. "I would not have objected to 90 percent of it but would merely have stopped short of and would have removed a statement of support because . . . I am trying to be neutral."
Black Caucus to Elect New Chairman
Discontent within the Legislative Black Caucus has led to its chairman Rep. Juan Lafonta agreeing to step down halfway through his two-year term.
Lafonta denied any problems over his actions but said that newly elected members wanted to have a say in who would lead the caucus.
But some veteran members said they had problems with Lafonta getting involved in political races that could have been interpreted as the caucus taking positions.
Some were upset that the New Orleans Democrat appeared at a Hillary Clinton rally in Lafayette and introduced former President Bill Clinton. Most caucus members are backing Sen. Barack Obama and do not want the presidential candidate to get the wrong impression about whom the caucus is supporting.
In that instance, Lafonta said he was speaking for himself and not the caucus.
They Said It
"I guess instead of the golden rule we got the slide rule."
--Sen. Butch Gautreaux on the disclosure bill not covering judges, in the Houma Courier
Also in This Issue
David Duke looms over congressional race; Who benefits most from ads?; Democrats Jockey for 2nd Primary; Leaders Carry Governor's Load; Road Backers Seek Budget Signals; More Quotes
Highlights from February 22 2008 |
|
|
Session Hits Speed Bump
The Legislature was poised to complete its work early, until glitches and questions delayed the passage of key bills and pushed the special session into next week.
"New members are chafing under the pressure," said House Speaker Jim Tucker in explaining the new timetable.
Despite the slowdown and some setbacks, legislative leaders and governor's staffers remain confident that the key bills will pass. allowing Gov. Bobby Jindal to claim success. Yet, some cracks in the unity have developed among legislators who have expressed frustration in dealing with the governor's staff and his restrictive call for the special session.
Jim Bernhard to Endorse Sen. Landrieu
Instead of opposing Sen. Mary Landrieu for the Democratic nomination this fall, Shaw Group CEO Jim Bernhard will endorse her Friay. Only last month, Bernhard was polling his Senate candidacy as rumors flew that he would challenge the incumbent in the Democratic primary in September.
A Landrieu campaign source said after the two spoke several times during and since Washington Mardi Gras, he decided to work to unite rather than divide the party.
Caddo DA, Senator Eye Congressional Seat
Caddo Parish District Attorney Paul Carmouche says he is "more than seriously" considering entering the Democratic congressional primary in the 4th District.
At the Capitol, Sen. Lydia Jackson, D-Shreveport, said her candidacy is a "very likely possibility" and that she plans to form an exploratory committee after the special session. She said she was encouraged to run by the strong turnout of 4th District blacks for Sen. Barack Obama in the Feb. 9 presidential primary.
Democrats are both heartened and dismayed by the developments, having gone in the space of a few days from no established Democratic candidates to two who will divide the race on racial lines.
They Said It
"At $50, we are going to be eating at Taco Bell."
--Rep. Charmaine Marchand on the limit for meals bought by lobbyists
Also in This Issue
How Jindal operates in session; Legislators say administration throttles reform bills; What the administration could not get done; Voting starts again for Congress; Next special session schedule; More quotes
Highlights from February 15 2008 |
|
|
Objections, Questions Slow Ethics Agenda
Key bills in the governor's ethics agenda rolled through committee but slowed down on reaching the House and Senate floors when legislators raised questions about fairness and unforeseen consequences.
During a Senate briefing on Wednesday, the conflict-of-interest bill ran into a buzzsaw of criticism over a similar fairness issue. It would ban the siblings, children and parents of legislators from contracting with the state, except by competitive bid, but not the families of the governor's staff and agency heads. Senate President Joel Chaisson II, D-Destrehan, doubted an amendment to include them would be germane to the session's call.
Senators say some of their agitation stems from frustration in dealing with Jindal's aides, who are seen as polite but often nonresponsive to legislators' concerns. "Their attitude is my-way-or-the-highway," grumbled a solon.
Chairman Seeks Re-Election Despite Losing Seat
By rule, the leader of the state Democratic Party does not have to belong to its governing body, the state central committee, which is good for Chairman Chris Whittington, because he no longer does.
The Baton Rouge attorney was defeated in his bid for re-election to the central committee in his district by Brandon Decuir, brother of congressional candidate Jason Decuir.
Yet Whittington still expects to be re-elected chairman at the party committee's March 15 meeting, despite that some Democratic officeholders are supporting Vacherie attorney Paul Aucoin. Whittington beat Aucoin four years ago in a close election.
Sen. Mary Landrieu, Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu and Congressman Charlie Melancon say they are backing Aucoin, though, as non-members of the committee, they are not endorsing. "The senator believes the party needs new direction," said a campaign aide.
National GOP Seeks Convention Role for Jindal
Conservative talk-show host Rush Limbaugh's gushing praise of Bobby Jindal notwithstanding, few Republicans see any chance of the new governor being picked to run for vice president by presumptive nominee John McCain.
Though Jindal is a rising GOP star, pundits say the 72-year-old McCain will need a running mate with more experience who could take over as president. Yet some sources say national party leaders, hoping to counter the ethnic inclusiveness epitomized by Democratic candidate Barack Obama, want to give Jindal a prominent role at the national convention in Minneapolis, perhaps even the coveted assignment of keynote speaker.
They Said It
Sen. Jack Donahue: "If a legislator and a lobbyist go to lunch and the legislator picks up the tab, would it be a reportable event?"
Lobbyist Alton Ashy: "It would be a historical event."
Highlights from February 01 2008 |
|
|
Highlights from February 01 2008 |
|
|
Brief Spotlight on Louisiana
Sen. Barack Obama looks to make a campaign stop in Baton Rouge next week before the Feb. 9 presidential primary, though details have not been firmed up. His campaign will focus on East Baton Rouge Parish because it stands to have the state's biggest turnout due to a controversial riverboat gambling referendum.
No word yet on whether either Sen. Clinton or former President Clinton will make an appearance here. So far, Louisiana has been more targeted for fundraising than votes by Clinton.
Bernhard Polls Senate Race
Political sources say that Shaw Group CEO Jim Bernhard is considering challenging Sen. Mary Landrieu in the Democratic primary or running in November as an independent.
The political rumor, widely circulated at Washington Mardi Gras, is that Bernhard is being encouraged by his next-door neighbor, former Sen. Cleo Fields, who has a long-standing animus with Landrieu.
Decuir Claims Early Frontrunner Spot in 6th
Jason Decuir, who narrowly lost a state Senate race in November, considered qualifying as an independent in the 6th Congressional District special election, but opted to file as a Democrat, based on his strong showing in a poll he commissioned.
The Kitchens Group poll done last week shows: Decuir, 23 percent; Rep. Michael Jackson, 14; Andy Kopplin, 9; Rep. Don Cazayoux, 7; Undecided, 47.
They Said It
"People say it's great you can look on your computer and see where sex offenders live, block by block. . . . I want to see them all in one place--Angola."
--Gov. Jindal to Iberville Chamber of Commerce, in the Advocate
Also in This Issue
More on Louisiana presidential primary; Move on to challenge Democratic state chairman; Democrats dissatisfied with candidates in 4th so far; Scalise's prospects for first primary victory; Legislators, lobbyists see ethics sticking points; How Jindal can diffuse his ethics controversy; More quotes
Highlights from January 25 2008 |
|
|
Large Field Taking Shape in 6th District
With the 6th District Democratic primary getting more crowded, the talk at Washington Mardi Gras is that Baton Rouge attorney Jason Decuir, who lost a close state Senate race last fall, might qualify next week to run as an independent. Decuir has hired Kitchens Group to do a poll before he decides on the race.
As an independent, he would bypass the Democratic primaries and go straight to the May 3 general election, which could be decided by a plurality. He did not return a call for comment.
Announced candidates are Reps. Don Cazayoux and Michael Jackson. Expected to run is Andy Kopplin, former head of the Louisiana Recovery Authority.
Announced Republican candidates are former Rep. Woody Jenkins and governmental consultant Laurinda Calongne. Paul Sawyer and Metro Councilman David Boneno are still considering the race. Qualifying runs Tuesday through Thursday.
Treen Said to Be No-Go in Congressional Race
A political source in the 1st Congressional District says that Dave Treen told him he would not qualify for the special election next week.
The top Republican candidates south of the lake, Sen. Steve Scalise and Jefferson Parish Councilman John Young, are working the crowds at Washington Mardi Gras. Staying home are the two Northshore contenders, Rep. Tim Burns and Slidell Mayor Ben Morris.
Job Rumblings Not Through at LSU
After Chancellor Sean O'Keefe's forced resignation, LSU sources say the next campus leader to come under critical review could be Tim Ryan, chancellor of the University of New Orleans.
Though no change is imminent, Ryan won no friends on the Board of Supervisors when he showed support for a possible realignment of higher education that would move UNO from under LSU to the University of Louisiana System. Those talks went nowhere. As for job performance, Ryan will have to answer for UNO's success or lack of in winning competitive research grants.
They Said It
"Edwin Edwards told me years ago, you don't talk business with people who have been drinking."
--Congressman Charlie Melancon on the social nature of Washington Mardi Gras
Also in This Issue
Washington Mardi Gras in Flux; Congressional candidates on the scene; Field Taking Shape in 6th; 1st District candidates split on D.C. scene; Lawyers comment on talk of Edwards' commutation; Pinnacle shortens odds with referendum spending; Voters could go to polls 9 times in 2008; More quotes
Highlights from January 18 2008 |
|
|
6th District to Be Partisan Battleground
Congressman Richard Baker's early retirement sets up a special election sprint and fuels Democrats' hopes of turning the seat held by Republicans for over 32 years.
The first primaries in the Baton Rouge-based 6th race could occur as early as March 8, with qualifying opening Jan. 29, which is what Secretary of State Jay Dardenne is leaning toward recommending to the governor.
First to declare was Rep. Don Cazayoux, D-New Roads, even before Baker announced his resignation to become a lobbyist for the hedge fund trade association.
Rep. Michael Jackson, D-Baton Rouge, says he will announce next week and will file his statement of candidacy before then in order to begin raising money.
Andy Kopplin, who recently resigned as director of the Louisiana Recovery Authority, is "very seriously considering" the race.
The combination of a short campaign and a closed Republican primary (independents cannot vote in it) gives the early advantage to former Rep. Woody Jenkins.
He could get the toughest competition from Rep. Hunter Greene, R-Baton Rouge, who sounds like a candidate but hasn't made a final public commitment.
Baton Rouge Metro Councilman David Boneno says he is seriously interested the race, as does former Baker aide Paul Sawyer.
O'Keefe Gone, Hospitals Next on LSU Agenda
With the public ordeal over the forced resignation of LSU Chancellor Sean O'Keefe behind it, the LSU team has to regroup for the major challenge of meshing its public-hospital role into the new governor's unrevealed plans for changing healthcare.
LSU has been negotiating for land near I-10 in southeast Baton Rouge to build a new teaching hospital. But now LSU sources are concerned about whether Jindal will back the project.
Some area non-public hospital officials say LSU can serve its mission with two new primary care clinics and its recent purchase of an orthopedic surgery hospital.
Jindal Administration Sharpening Budget Knife
Despite $2.4 billion in surpluses and extra funds for the Legislature to spend, Commissioner of Administration Angele Davis wants cabinet secretaries to begin preparing now for leaner times.
The budget office has sent a memo to departments asking for "a list of your lowest-performing activities that utilize state resources and justification of why the activities should continue." Those lists, according to the memo, "should cumulatively account for at least 25 percent of your funding."
"We are trying to challenge cabinet and staff to look at budget development a little differently," Davis explained, "to see if lower performing programs can be phased out or scaled back . . . or whether they are meeting the needs of the people."
They Said It
"This is just an omen of things to come."
--Outgoing Senate President Don Hines, on a voting machine malfunction on the new Senate's opening roll call, in the Picayune
Also in This Issue
More on 6th District Race; Treen to Announce Whether He's Running; Ellingtons Back in Court on Hiring Flap; Republicans Vie for Shreveport Seat; BESE, Pastorek Expanding School Takeovers; Drennen Joins Lobbying Firm; More Quotes
Highlights from January 11 2008 |
|
|
Heads Roll in Gaming Division
Three deeply experienced gaming regulators known to be tough on video poker operators have been let go by incoming Attorney General Buddy Caldwell.
Assistant attorneys general informed this week that their services in the Gaming Division will not be needed after Monday's inauguration are: Tom Warner, a 17-year veteran responsible for writing gaming regulations; Mike Daniels, with 10 years experience, the division's prosecutor in administrative hearings; and Rand Dennis, a 10-year veteran, who headed the appellate section.
"Buddy Caldwell felt that those attorneys, though they are great attorneys, didn't meet the level of efficiency and goals of his administration," said incoming press secretary Tammi Arender. Assistant attorneys general are not protected by Civil Service.
One riverboat casino executive, who wished not to be identified, said he saw "video poker's fingerprints" in the dismissals. A number of video poker operators contributed to Caldwell's campaign.
Caldwell responded through Arender to say, "That is absolutely unfounded speculation that he did any firing to do what video poker wanted."
Leading video poker lobbyist Alton Ashy would not comment whether he or his clients asked for the attorneys to be fired.
Legislators Get Antsy Over Jindal's Ethics Silence
On Sunday night before they are sworn in, legislators and their wives will attend a swank reception at the State Museum. It will be hosted by the incoming Senate President and House Speaker but paid for by contributing lobbyists, whose relationships with legislators will be a prime topic in a special session on ethics to be called next month.
Depending on how far Gov.-elect Bobby Jindal chooses to go--and legislators follow--on restricting freebies from lobbyists, the party could be one of the last of its kind.
Or not. Legislators don't know the governor's plan, and some are getting impatient. The new governor has said he will wait to receive a report from his ethics advisory council next week before deciding on what legislation to draft.
Kennedy to Report $460,000 in the Bank
In his campaign for the U.S. Senate, Republican Treasurer John Kennedy's campaign staff says he will report having raised over $500,000 in just over a month and has $460,000 cash on hand.
The report due out on Jan. 31 covers when he started raising money on Nov. 29 through the end of the year. Landrieu's staff says she will report $4 million cash on hand.
They Said It
"I dont' think you ever restricted me. You may have tried once or twice, but it didn't work."
--Rep. Warren Triche's farewell remarks to Legislative Audit Advisory Council and chairman Sen. Ed Murray
Also in This Issue
More on Gaming Division firings; Removing O'Keefe Could Get Messy for LSU; State's Seniority Loss Could Benefit Landrieu's Politics; Scalise, Morris Lead 1st District Poll; Newcomer Rounding Up Support in 4th; 6th District Possible Partisan Battleground; More Quotes
Highlights from January 04 2008 |
|
|
LSU Chancellor Denies Pressure to Resign
LSU Chancellor Sean O'Keefe denies that President John Lombardi is pressuring him to resign, though campus sources say his job performance is under critical review.
Rumors of the exchange have floated for weeks, and were aired publicly in an e-mail that Alexandria business leader Jonathan Martin sent to board member Charlie Weems and others, which began, "The new LSU system president Lombardi has notified Sean O'Keefe that he should be looking for another job."
"I did not have that conversation with President Lombardi," said O'Keefe, but he added, "The bottom line is I serve at the pleasure of the Board of Supervisors."
A LSU spokesman said neither President Lombardi nor the Board of Supervsiors would comment on the matter.
Yet a campus source stated, "Reviewing the performance of high-level officials is constantly under way. . . . This has been going on. There has been a critical unhappiness in his performance." He added, "What happens next is in the chancellor's hands."
Kevin Davis Expected to Pass on Congressional Race
The most telling sign yet that St. Tammany Parish President Kevin Davis, a Republican, will not enter the special congressional election in the 1st District came from, of all places, the office of Democratic Sen. Mary Landrieu.
Landrieu's office released a letter of endorsement for her re-election signed by 24 elected officials, including Davis. The popular parish president had been courted by area Republicans to run for Congress, but his endorsement of Landrieu, the GOP's primary target in 2008, makes it less likely that he will.
Davis not running would be best news for Sen.-elect Steve Scalise, R-Metairie, who has been campaigning and who has secured the support of leading GOP contributors.
Landrieu Has $4 Million Raised for Campaign
Sen. Mary Landrieu will report about $4 million cash on hand to start her re-election campaign, according to her campaign staff. Though the staff is still opening checks postmarked by Dec. 31, it expects to show $1.1 million raised in the fourth quarter.
They Said It
"She prays, and she is sure that he will one day become president of the United States."
--translator for Bobby Jindal's aunt Pushpa Bansal of Mehalkalan, India, from the Picayune series on Jindal's Indian roots by Robert Travis Scott
Also in This Issue
Louisiana Primary looms small; Why only Romney and McCain are competing for Louisiana delegates; Last Cabinet posts to fill; Winners and losers in legislative leadership; Rep. Powell's departure and replacement
Highlights from December 13 2007 |
|
|
VACATION STARTS. NEXT ISSUE: JAN. 4
GOP Needs Contender for McCrery's Seat
Republicans are confident they can hold the seat of retiring Congressman Jim McCrery, but a 31 percent black registration and McCrery's unimpressive 57 percent showing against a field of unknowns in 2006 has Democrats smelling opportunity.
Republicans' best hopes ride on getting Caddo Parish's popular Sheriff Steve Prator to run, but he doesn't sound eager to. "I don't know if it's right for me, but I'm not closing the door," said Prator, who is 55. "I'm not saying I probably will but I'm saying my eyes are open."
Shreveport Democrats see their best shot in former Mayor Keith Hightower, who has gone back to selling cars but is said to want to run. Key for Hightower would be for Sen. Lydia Jackson, D-Shreveport, to not run herself and back him, but she has not ruled out her candidacy.
GOP Runoff Is Likely in 1st District
In the 1st District, North Shore Republicans had a scare last week upon hearing that popular St. Tammany Parish President Kevin Davis would be appointed to head the state Department of Transportation and Development. But he squelched those rumors and said he would make his statement on the congressional race next week.
He could be bolstered by results of a poll currently in the field to determine the strongest candidate north of the lake. Some leading Republicans have commissioned the Southern Media survey to include Davis, Rep. Tim Burns and Slidell Mayor Ben Morris.
South of the lake, Jefferson Parish Councilman-at-Large John Young will run, according to close sources, having come off an easy re-election. Sen.-elect Steve Scalise has rounded up the backing of key GOP contributors, but his base is smaller.
Jindal, Speaker-to-Be Disagree on Chairmanship
The talk in the Capitol early in the week was that Gov.-elect Bobby Jindal was supporting Rep.-elect Noble Ellington, D-Winnsboro, to chair the House Appropriations Committee in order to satisfy complaints from northeast legislators about the region being shut out.
Now comes word that Speaker-to-be Jim Tucker, R-Algiers, is resisting. One source said his meeting with the governor on Wednesday did not go well and the matter is unresolved.
House members, especially veterans, are rallying around Tucker for exhibiting a semblance of House independence. Among the disappointed was Rep. Michael Jackson, D-Baton Rouge, thought to be Tucker's preference before Jindal weighed in.
They Said It
"Committee assignments and apartments and parking spots. Those are going to be the three sticking points right there, early on."
--Senate President Don Hines on challenges facing incoming President Joel Chaisson II, in the Lafayette Advertiser
Also in This Issue
Other possible 4th District contenders; New Orleans congressional candidates, with or without Jefferson; LSU wary of possible healthcare secretary candidates; Ethics panel to consider legislator's business dealings, possible entertainment cap; Caldwell appointment changes BR DA's race; Proposed racino a long shot
|
