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ANOTHER POTENTIAL FOE FOR CONGRESSMAN CAO |
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Written by Jeff Crouere
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Wednesday, 16 December 2009 |
The race is a year away, but the candidates are already lining up to face incumbent U.S. Congressman Joseph Cao (R-New Orleans). Currently, he has two major opponents, State Representative Cedric Richmond (D-New Orleans) and State Representative Juan LaFonta (D-New Orleans). However, another high profile candidate may enter the race in the coming days. Reverend Byron Clay, the National President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) is seriously considering the race. Clay is a Kenner resident and a well known community activist and church leader. In February of this year, he was tapped to serve as interim President of the SCLC after the resignation of the Reverend Charles Steele, Jr. Clay will be succeeded by Bernice King, the daughter of slain civil rights leader Martin Luther King, Jr.
Reverend Clay admits that he is seriously considering the race and will make a final decision soon. He is being encouraged by a diverse collection of supporters that range from African American ministers to Republican insiders. Vincent Bruno, a member of the Jefferson Parish Republican Executive Committee, and former Secretary of the group, is leading the effort to recruit Clay into the race. According to Bruno, “Reverend Clay is an honest man who has served this area for years. I worked with him during the hurricane feeding the multitudes and I know his heart. He will put God first and not personal politics. He is eminently qualified and will bring a new dynamic to the House of Representatives.” Bruno said his decision is not a reflection upon the Republican incumbent, but instead it is based on his deep admiration for Reverend Clay.
In a surprising twist, Clay will run as an Independent if he enters the race, an unusual move for an African American civil rights leader. It remains to be seen whether he will be able to raise sufficient campaign funds and generate enough bi-partisan support to win what will surely be a competitive election; however, there is little doubt that he would be a serious contender if he becomes a candidate. |
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