Attorney General Jeff Landry, a Republican endorsed by former President Donald Trump, secures victory in Louisiana governor’s race, triumphing over a crowded field of candidates.
This win marks a significant triumph for the GOP as they regain control of the governor’s mansion after eight years. Landry will replace the current governor, John Bel Edwards, who is unable to seek reelection due to consecutive term limits. Edwards is the only Democratic governor in the Deep South.
Since his election in 2015, Landry, 52, has elevated the role of attorney general and has championed conservative policy positions. Recently, Landry has faced national attention due to his involvement and unwavering support of controversial Louisiana laws, including the ban on gender-affirming medical care for transgender youth, the state’s near-total abortion ban without exceptions for cases of rape and incest, and a law limiting youths’ access to “sexually explicit material” in libraries, raising concerns that it may target LGBTQ+ books.
By garnering more than half of the votes, Landry successfully avoids a runoff election under Louisiana’s “jungle primary” system.
Landry and Edwards have been at odds over various state matters, including LGBTQ rights, state finances, and the death penalty. Additionally, Landry has engaged in national battles, such as those concerning President Joe Biden’s policies that restrict oil and gas production and enforce COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
Prior to his political career, Landry served in the Louisiana Army National Guard for 11 years and worked as a local police officer, sheriff’s deputy, and attorney. He spent two years on Capitol Hill representing Louisiana’s 3rd U.S. Congressional District starting in 2011.
Throughout the gubernatorial election season, Landry was considered the frontrunner, receiving endorsements from high-profile Republicans, including Trump and U.S. Rep Steve Scalise, who was nominated as the next House speaker. Landry also received an early, controversial endorsement from the state GOP. Furthermore, he maintained a substantial fundraising advantage over his opponents.
Addressing urban crime is a top priority for Landry as governor. He has advocated for a tough-on-crime stance, emphasizing the need for “transparency” in the justice system and continuing support for capital punishment. Louisiana currently has the nation’s second-highest murder rate per capita.
During the campaign, Landry faced political attacks on social media and in interviews, with opponents labeling him as a bully and accusing him of backroom deals to gain support. He also faced criticism for participating in only one major televised debate.
Other candidates running for governor included GOP state Sen. Sharon Hewitt, independent attorney Hunter Lundy, Republican state Treasurer John Schroder, former business group head Stephen Waguespack, and former head of Louisiana’s Transportation and Development Department and major Democratic candidate Shawn Wilson.
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