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The gubernatorial primary is seven months from today. Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards is facing two G-O-P challengers, Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone. UL-Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says it’s hard to say who will be in a likely run-off with Edwards.
“On the one hand you have name recognition with Abraham, on the other hand you have fundraising and money with the businessman, so right now I would say it’s a toss up between the two Republican candidates,” said Cross.
There is still time for another Republican to get in the race. Could Congressman Steve Scalise change his mind and throw his hat into the ring. UL Lafayette Political Science Professor Pearson Cross says that’s unlikely.
“Scalise has a job that he likes that he is well suited for and someday he might be Speaker of the House,” said Cross.
In 2015, Edwards defeated Republican US Senator David Vitter. Cross says Edwards might face a more difficult challenge this time around, because Vitter was a wounded candidate trying to shake his former ties to prostitution.
“He will have to win against other Republicans in the face of some withering fire, because Republicans nationally would like to get Louisiana back in the “R” column,” said Cross.
