It was a busy year in state politics but it’s clear the defining fight of 2020 was that between the Governor and House Republicans over the public health emergency declaration.
House Republicans attempted to override the Governor’s orders using a little known petition process but have been, so far, denied by the courts. UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross said it was an incredibly bold attack on executive authority given the circumstances.
“It was quite surprising to see the Legislature go after the Governor’s powers particularly when, in a time of crisis like this, that the Governor’s powers are magnified,” said Cross.
Baton Rouge Judge William Morvant rejected the effort, which was brought to court by Attorney General Jeff Landry, in November but last week was ordered by the State Supreme Court to revisit the case in 2021.
Cross said the incredibly vitriolic battle over COVID restrictions in Louisiana was a reflection of the greater partisan battle playing out nationally at that time and the struggle for state vs. business rights during a time of pandemic.
Cross said House Republicans’ biggest hurdle was that their Senate colleagues did not back their attempt, which is why he suspects Governor Edwards was never worried about it.
“They (House Republicans) have seemed to my eyes at least to not be particularly potent with regards to the Governor. Maybe they had better wait for next year and a new session and go back at it then,” said Cross.
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