Highlights from June 27 2008 |
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Pay Raise Plagues Jindal; Recalls Stalk Legislators
Gov. Bobby Jindal was back in the New York Times this week, with a picture, but for all the wrong reasons. The toxic pay raise controversy enveloping him has gone national and his political world has changed. Within days, Jindal went from being a legitimate vice-presidential prospect to having his character questioned in his first crisis of public confidence, without his having done a thing.
Meanwhile, pay raise-supporting legislators, who thought the worst was over, are now seeing recall movements popping up around them. So far, drives are directed at three freshmen represenatives and Speaker of the House Jim Tucker, all Republicans.
Even as he seeks to maintain an effective relationship with the Legislature, his badgering, blaming and labeling them as threats to reform only strain any good will he gains by not vetoing their raise.
Overall, this has turned into a no-win situation for him and everyone else touched by it, except for talk-show hosts and bloggers.
Cassidy Pushes for Unified Support in 6th
State Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, is the only sure challenger to Congressman Don Cazayoux, and he hopes to keep it that way, on the GOP side at least.
Now that former Republican candidate Laurinda Calongne has ruled out another try, the big questions hanging over the July 9-11 qualifying period are will Woody Jenkins run again in the GOP primary and will Rep. Michael Jakcson, D-Baton Rouge, file as an independent.
Cassidy is concentrating on raising money and appears to be having success, judging from the list of hosts for his fundraiser last night. They included many of the business and professional elite who were missing from Jenkins' campaign finance reports.
Speaker Recall Drawing Statewide Support
Speaker of the House Jim Tucker, the most vocal proponent of the raise, now faces a recall drive aimed at gathering signatures of one-third of the 23,286 registered voters in District 86 within the next six months.
That those West Bank voters would be inclined to turn out of office the most powerful member of the Legislature ever to hail from the district would be laughable on any other issue but this one, which has shook the state.
According to a poll commissioned by John Roberts III, the leader of a recall petition, 59 percent of district voters are ready to sign.
Despite poll results, drive organizers can expect resistance on Tucker's home turf, where the legislator has been unopposed since his first special election in 2001.
They Said It
"No matter where I go, they certainly are disappointed, and they are using some very unkind words related to his spine."
--Bernie Pinsonat on the governor and the pay raise, in the New York Times
Also in This Issue
More on Governor's Pay Raise Dilemma; Jindal's VP Prospects Compromised; Two Different Races in $th CD; Cravins' Chances Against Boustany; Few Signs of PSC Challenges; Levee Match Could Devour Surpluses; More Quotes
Highlights from June 27 2008 |
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Highlights from June 20 2008 |
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Veto Heat on Jindal
Pay raise becomes character issue
The governor is trying to keep intense public opposition to the legislative pay raise directed at legislators, but, more and more, the volcanic controversy is turning into a test of character: his own.
Speaker Jim Tucker dismissed the governor's latest demand that lawmakers suspend the pay raise they voted for themselves. With no further action expected from lawmakers before Monday's final adjournment, the issue, like the bill, lies with the governor. With editorial and public pressure mounting for a gubernatorial veto before the July 8 deadline, some Fourth Floor staffers, with gallows humor, are calling the next three weeks "the 20-day death march."
Though Gov. Jindal has repeated that he will not veto the bill, legislators aren't sure they believe him. They fear he will cave in to public pressure--largely from his own supporters--and veto the bill some time after adjournment.
Jindal's defense, that he had previously told legislators he would not veto the bill, was undone by revelation of his campaign promise to not allow legislative pay raises to take effect during the term they are approved. Critics are now blasting him for breaking a campaign promise in order to keep his word with politicians.
Media and Internet criticism has shifted from the greed of the Legislature to the weakness of the governor, which, if that reputation sticks, could compromise what national ambitions he harbors.
Veto Heat on Jindal
The governor is trying to keep intense public opposition to the legislative pay raise directed at legislators, but, more and more, the volcanic controversy is turning into a test of character: his own.
With editorial and public pressure mounting for a gubernatorial veto before the July 8 deadline, some Fourth Floor staffers, with gallows humor, are calling the next three weeks "the 20-day death march."
Jindal has to decide if a hostile relationship with the Legislature if he vetoes the bill would be worse than his loss of public stature if he doesn't. Veto supporters say he can overcome the anger of the Legislature and its future opposition to his agenda if he gets the public back squarely on his side.
Legislators Still in Line of Fire
Zeroing in on the most prominent pay raise proponent, a former legislative candidate is organizing a recall drive against Speaker of the House Jim Tucker, R-Algiers. John K. Roberts III, who lost a state Senate race to Democrat John Alario, has launched a web site and is seeking volunteers to gather signatures in Tucker's district. Once papers are filed with the secretary of state, the recall drive will have 180 days to get signatures from one-third of about 25,000 registered voters in the district.
Mitch Landrieu Gaining Power from Jindal
This has been a far better legislative session so far for Lt. Gov. Mitch Landrieu than any he had under former Gov. Kathleen Blanco, a fellow Democrat.
Two bills have passed and await the governor's signature that would give Landrieu control over three significant boards central to his office's mission: the State Museum Board, the Tourism Development Board and the State Library Board. The governor currently makes those appointments.
They Said It
"As for the staff, they did what I told them to do, but they should have been wiser than to do that."
--Sen. Joe McPherson on problematic drafting of an amendment
Also in This Issue
More on Jindal's Veto Dilemma; Evolution Bill Attracts National Attention; Challengers Aim for Runoff with Jefferson; Harmony Reigns (So Far) on Budget; Hope Fades for Congressional Funding; DHH Chief Wants Big Hospital, New Management; Reality Check; More Quotes
Highlights from June 13 2008 |
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Pay Raise Fallout
Intense media and public furor over the fast-moving legislative pay raise bill, set for House vote today, has some representatives rethinking their positions. A compromise is being floated to lower the new salary to about $38,000 from $50,700 in the current bill. Yet many representatives are standing fast on Sen. Ann Duplessis' bill that has enveloped the session in controversy.
If the bill passes in its present form, Gov. Bobby Jindal has ten days either to veto it or to let it become law without his signature. Those could be the longest, darkest ten days of his term, for Jindal is bound to feel great pressure from his conservative base to honor the spirit of reform he brought into office rather than to keep his word with lawmakers.
Legislators agree that Jindal's sudden involvement in this issue, following an unprecedented detachment from the legislative process, may be responsible for the political pickle he finds himself in.
Landrieu Poll Shows Wider Lead on Kennedy
Following an independent poll showing a tight contest, Sen. Mary Landrieu's campaign has released its own survey showing her leading Republican challenger John Kennedy, 49-33 percent.
The 600-sample poll by the Mellman Group was taken May 17-20. The results are little changed from a December poll by Mellman showing a 48-35 percent Landrieu lead.
An automatic poll by Rasmussen Reports on May 27 had Landrieu leading only 47-44 percent. Both polls identified the candidates by party.
Airport Bill Challenged on Both Ends of State
A bill laying the groundwork for the future transfer of control of Armstrong International Airport from New Orleans to the state looks clear for final passage, but the ultimate goal is far from take-off.
The big-picture plan backed by New Orleans and Baton Rouge business leaders envisions the state issuing bonds to pay $500 million for the transfer, to be used for infrastructure projects to be controlled by another board still to be formed.
Yet the first step, Speaker Jim Tucker's bill to set up the airport board, is getting pushback on the larger issue from city and state sources. Some local politicians say the airport is worth $2 billion to $4 billion, while legislators from outside New Orleans question why the state would pay even $500 million to take over an airport that makes little money.
They Said It
"This is the best committee in the Senate. We don't have a lawyer on it."
--Senate Transportation Committee Chairman Joe McPherson
Also in This Issue
More on pay raise controversy, including how Jindal's intervention may have helped to pass bill; Jindal's Rift with Legislature; What pay raise will cost legislators; Cassidy filling coffers for congressional race; Dardenne concerned about more voter registration drives; Tuition bill in Senate, Finance Committee trying to restore budget cuts; More quotes.
Highlights from June 06 2008 |
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Massive Democratic Voter Drive
A massive voter registration drive backed by the Louisiana Democratic Party has deluged parish registrar offices with tens of thousands of applications, possibly resulting in a significant increase of Democrats going to the polls this fall.
State Democratic party spokesman Brian Walsh said the drive has nearly reached its goal of 70,000 applications from areas described as low-income and under-represented. Registrars say the applicants are predominantly African-American, in some parishes over 95 percent.
Officials in the four largest parishes say their staffs are working 12-hour days, six days a week to try to process the applications. Registrars say most of the applications are valid, but that many are from voters already registered or have missing information or are questionable, including a number with names of dead people.
Walsh says that its contractor's supervisors try to verify the information received from canvassers, but if they can't, they turn the cards into the registrars for verification rather than throwing them away.
3 Republicans Look at Running in Sixth
Though Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, says he will challenge Democratic Congressman Don Cazayoux in the fall, former candidate Woody Jenkins says he is talking to the state senator but still intends to run again himself. Neither has former candidate Laurinda Calongne taken herself out of consideration.
The eventual Republican nominee would gain a big advantage over Cazayoux if Rep. Michael Jackson follows through on his intent to qualify as an independent on the November ballot. With Democrats split, a Republican could win with only a plurality.
Tuition Compromise to Limits Raises to 2 Years
The House fell just two votes short of allowing college boards to increase tuition by five percent a year for each of the next four years. Legislative sources predict the tuition bill will be amended on Monday to limit the increases to two years, which should lead to easy passage in both houses.
They Said It
"You've got me, I don't keep up with what's legal or not."
--Sen. Jody Amedee on a crime bill
Also in This Issue
More on Major Voter Drive; Democratic Chairman's Endorsement of Clinton Angers Black Leaders; Democrats Look at Running in 5th, 7th Districts; Partisan Divide on Stelly Tax Cut; Senators Look for Room in Budget; Pay Raise Bills Expected to Move; More Quotes
Highlights from June 06 2008 |
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Highlights from May 30 2008 |
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Sen. Cassidy to Decide on Congressional Race
Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, is moving closer to getting into the 6th Congressional District race.
"I'll make a decision in the next day or two," he said Wednesday. He has been phoning supporters to ask if he should run and to gauge his fundraising potential.
Should Cassidy decide to run, his first considerations are the Republican candidates defeated in this year's special election, Woody Jenkins and Laurinda Calongne, both of whom say they likely will run in the primary in September.
Lawmakers Eye Mega Fund
With budget hearings just beginning in the upper chamber, senators and the Jindal administration are looking for ways to restore most or all of the $120 million in state funds the House cut, plus to free up more for added construction projects. They need to do this without exceeding the constitutional spending cap, which the current and next year's budgets are bumping up against.
The solution being discussed by legislators is to tap part of the $307 million mega-fund that is budgeted for incentive packages for future economic development projects. If some big deals come along later this year that require replenishing the mega-fund, legislators agree that they could quickly come into special session, raise the spending cap and appropriate the money.
The governor has not acknowledged the strategy, but for legislators it points to the path of least resistance, the road most traveled.
3rd Party Ads Back Kennedy on Earmarks
It's not presented as a Senate campaign ad, but it sure sounds like one. A national fiscal conservative group is running radio ads supporting Treasurer John Kennedy's support of a bill to reform the state's budget process.
Americans for Economic Prosperity's ad asks listeners to help Kennedy and Sen. Blade Morrish, R-Jennings, pass Morrish's SB 106 to require more information of non-governmental organizations seeking budget appropriations.
They Said It
"If you let the public vote to take the cushions off our chairs, we'd be sitting on the floor to get comfortable, if they didn't vote to take up the carpet."
--Sen. Danny Martiny
Also in This Issue
Alario the Budget Player; The Other VP Contender; Gorman Ads Pick Up Pace in 4th; Voucher Battle Forming in Senate; Ethics, Term Limits Push Pay Raise; New House Surprises Business Lobby; More Quotes
Highlights from May 23 2008 |
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VP Jindal Better for One Landrieu Than Another
In Louisiana, pride and excitement among conservatives over Jindal's potential vice-presidential nomination is tempered by the consequence of Gov. Mitch Landrieu for three years and possibly beyond. Some callers to radio talk shows have said it's not worth the trade.
As for the only Landrieu who will be on the fall ballot, Jindal next to the top of the GOP ticket poses the most serious threat yet to Sen. Mary Landrieu's re-election.
While she would benefit from the large African-American turnout that Obama would draw, Jindal for vice-president would cause a corresponding white conservative turnout for Republican Senate candidate John Kennedy to ride.
Income Tax Repeal Effort Not Dead Yet
When Gov. Jindal returns from his Arizona weekend, he and his team will have another income-tax repeal uprising to put down in the House.
The surprise bill of the session, SB 87 by Sen. Buddy Shaw, R-Shreveport, might come up on the House floor next week. A batch of floor amendments, pre-filed by both Democrats and Republicans, would reinstate the total income tax repeal language that was removed in committee.
The Stelly tax cut would cost the treasury $300 million in 2009-10. The full income tax repeal would eliminate $4 billion in revenue by 2017. Members are unhappy at having to do what they believe to be the responsible thing by voting against the full repeal, knowing it could used against them later as a pro tax vote.
Black Turnout Not Excessive in 6th CD
In the 6th Congressional District race, a highly visible African-American voter turnout operation led some to credit that with Democrat Don Cazayoux's 49-46 percent victory over Republican Woody Jenkins.
Yet, post-election statistics show that the rate of white turnout, 26 percent, well exceeded that of blacks at 19 percent. White turnout is normally 10 to 12 points higher than black turnout, but that is in much higher turnout elections.
They Said It
"John McCain needs all the help he can get. He was a war hero in Vietnam. He's honest. He's candid to the point of getting himself in trouble. Bobby Jindal has none of these faults."
--Sen. Joe McPherson
Also in This Issue
Jindal's prospects for VP; House members react to administration lobbying; Disclosure rules causing board resignations; You might already be a lobbyist; Morality legislation gaining momentum; More quotes
Highlights from May 16 2008 |
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Stelly Era Coming to End
Gov. Bobby Jindal finally got in front of the Stelly tax-cut train that now appears rolling toward easy passage in the House and concurrence in the Senate. Already putting the Stelly cut into the big picture, the governor noted the proposed elimination would mark the sixth tax reduction of his four-month-old administration.
"It shows what can be done when you don't care about who gets the credit," read the governor's statement announcing his and the legislative leadership's support of SB 87 by Sen. Buddy Shaw, R-Shreveport, which will cut $302 million in income taxes beginning in 2009.
It also marks the first major show of independence by House members, particulary those on the Ways & Means Committee. They ignored Jindal's first condition that tax cuts be accompanied by spending cuts and then rejected a two-year phase-in.
Cravins Might Run as Democrat Against Boustany
Sen. Don Cravins Jr., D-Opelousas, is being heavily courted by national Democrats to challenge Congressman Charles Boustany, R-Lafayette, and to abandon his earlier plan to run as an independent.
Cravins acknowledged that the chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee had offered early financial aid and help with strategy. "In the next two weeks I will have a definite decision," he said.
Paul Hollis Aims at Kennedy in Primary
Political newcomer Paul Hollis has declared he will enter the Republican primary for U.S. Senate against Treasurer John Kennedy.
The 36-year-old Mandeville coin dealer and son of former state Sen. Ken Hollis has launched a web site and says he will self-fund the early stage of his campaign.
He sees the closed Republican primary as his opportunity to exploit Kennedy's party switch to the GOP last year. "I don't see Republicans going to the polls and voting for a Democrat," said Hollis. "I'm targeting real Republicans."
They Said It
"Monkey dust. Monkey dust. Monkey dust."
--Sen. William Cassidy, saying arguments against his bill were attempts to confuse issue
Also in This Issue
Plans for $1.4 Billion surplus; Jindal's Key Victory on Vouchers; Governor's Office, Press Clash Over Records; Environmentalists Blast Cut to DEQ Investigations; Big Money/Power Shift at N.O. Airport; Legislative Pay Raise Gaining Steam; More Candidates Eye Cazayoux's House Seat; More Quotes
Highlights from May 09 2008 |
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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.
PSC Candidate Pushes For Gas Tax Holiday
If it works for Hillary Clinton, why not Wayne Waddell?
The Shreveport Republican, who will challenge Public Service Commissioner Foster Campbell this fall, is running radio ads touting his plan, similar to Clinton's, to suspend the 16-cent-per-gallon state tax on gasoline for July, August and September.
The measure would knock an estimated $151 million hole in the Transportation Trust Fund and could also affect federal matching funds. His resolution is in House Ways & Means Committee.
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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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 |
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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
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