For the past several weeks,
prominent Democrats have been urging New Orleans Councilman-at-large Arnie
Fielkow to consider a race for the U.S. Senate in 2010. Democrats have been
frantically looking for a candidate to challenge Republican incumbent U.S.
Senator David Vitter next year. Top Democrats believe that Vitter is vulnerable
after it was revealed that his phone number was linked to the D.C. Madam’s call
girl ring and his admission of a “serious sin.” A recent poll showed Vitter
with an overall approval rating of 58%, which is adequate but not invulnerable.
After some consideration, Fielkow
has decided not to enter the U.S. Senate race. He is well known in the New Orleans area, but establishing
statewide name recognition would cost millions of dollars. So, it would be a
difficult challenge in a tough economy in which to raise significant funds in a
short time span.
In addition, the Councilman has
decided to pass on another race. He will not challenge U.S. Congressman Joseph
Cao (R-New Orleans) next year. Democrats believe that Cao is vulnerable due to
the demographics of the 2nd congressional district and the unusual
nature of his special election victory over indicted incumbent Bill Jefferson.
A number of prominent Democrats are investigating a race against Cao, including
State Representative Cedric Richmond (D-New Orleans).
Although Fielkow admitted a
strong interest in “national issues,” he is primarily focusing on political
opportunities in New Orleans.
He said that he is “looking at the mayor’s race and the council.” He will
either run for re-election to the at-large position or enter the Mayor’s race.
If he runs for Mayor, Fielkow will be considered one of the frontrunners in the
campaign. It is still unclear if Lt. Governor Mitch Landrieu will run for Mayor
a third time. Some of his supporters want Landrieu him to run again for Mayor,
while others would prefer him to challenge Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal in
2011. Landrieu has promised a decision on the Mayor’s race after the
legislative session ends in late June.
Along with Fielkow and Landrieu,
there are many other prominent individuals strongly considering the Mayor’s
race. The lengthy list includes businessman John Georges, businessman Rob
Couhig, New Orleans Police Chief Warren Riley, State Senator Ed Murray (D-New
Orleans), State Representative Austin Badon (D-New Orleans), musician Irvin
Mayfield, and housing advocate James Perry.
