U.S. Congressman Charlie Melancon (D-Napoleonville)
is taking a fresh look at the U.S. Senate race in 2010. Previously, he
expressed reservations about entering the contest, but things have changed in
the last few weeks.
Previously, he expressed
reservations about entering the contest, but things have changed in the last
few weeks. Republicans have been increasing their efforts to lure a well funded
and strong opponent into a campaign against Melancon next year. Louisiana
Republican Party Chairman Roger Villere predicted that the Republicans would
find a formidable challenger to oppose Melancon. Furthermore, State
Representative Nickie Monica (R-LaPlace) has already indicted his interest in
challenging Melancon. He has engaged in serious discussions with the National
Republican Congressional Committee and has met with potential donors. If Monica
or another prominent Republican runs, Melancon would have a real fight on his
hands just to win re-election. Therefore, he may have an even better chance of
defeating Senator Vitter in a statewide race. While Melancon contemplates his
political future, Shaw Group CEO Jim Bernhard and former U.S. Congressman Chris
John are also considering a U.S. Senate run. State Democratic Party Chairman
Chris Whittington promised to have a candidate in place by August. On the
Republican side, Republican Secretary of State Jay Dardenne and retiring State
Supreme Court Justice Chet Traylor are both contemplating the race. Former U.S. Congressman John Cooksey and former
State Elections Commissioner Suzanne Haik Terrell both declined a chance to
challenge Vitter and they have endorsed the Senator for re-election.
