U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) is seriously considering entering next year's governor's race.
Kennedy released a media statement Monday morning that expressed his strong interest in replacing Gov. John Bel Edwards, who is term-limited and will not be able to run in the 2023 governor's election.
In his statement, Kennedy wrote:
“I’ve spent my life and career serving the people of Louisiana. Becky and I raised our family here and are so proud to call it home. But we can’t deny that our great state is facing serious challenges. To meet those challenges, Louisiana families deserve a governor who can lead our state and help solve our toughest problems.
"Over the last year, Louisianians have asked me time and time again to come home to serve as governor during these difficult times. Becky and I love the people of Louisiana. We’ve always listened to them, so I am giving serious consideration to entering the governor’s race. I’ll be announcing my decision soon.”
Kennedy, of nearby Madisonville, has considerd running for governor before, but a close associate said he is closer than ever before to entering the 2023 race. The associate said Kennedy hoped the Republicans would win the Senate majority in the November 8 election. Over this past weekend, it appeared definite that Democrats will continue to hold the Senate majority, ending Kennedy's hope of obtaining a committee chairmanship. While Kennedy won Senate re-election in Louisiana by a landslide, Republican Senate candidates in several other states did not do as well as had been hoped.
Should Kennedy enter the governor's race, he would instantly become the favorite. Not only does he have widespread name recognition and approval in Louisiana, but he also has access to massive campaign funds to be used in the campaign. Before being elected to the U.S. Senate, Kennedy served as State Treasurer, and before that he served in top posts under Gov, Mike Foster --- so he already has plenty of state capital experience.
Other candidates for Louisiana governor in 2023 are now taking a "wait and see" attitude. If Kennedy actually decides to run, some of those Republicans considering the race would certainly drop out.
