Governor John Bel Edwards and First Lady Donna Edwards at his end-of-the-year press conference. December 18, 2023
Governor John Bel Edwards will give his farewell remarks tonight (6:30 PM) from his hometown of Amite. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat said Edwards will highlight his achievements which he believes is a smart move politically if the Democrat wants to run again in 2027.
“Especially with the Republicans taking over, if they fail, his reminders of what a great job he’s done according to him will certainly pave the way for him to run again if he so desires,” said Pinsonat.
Among the two-term governor’s accomplishments is balancing the budget and increasing funding for education. Pinsonat said Edwards was fortunate the state was able to receive federal funds after multiple natural disasters and the pandemic.
“He was aided by the federal government, not so much the growth of Louisiana’s population and accomplishments of keeping our people here but you have to admit he had a lot of money to spend, and he spent it most people would say wisely,” said Pinsonat.
With less than a week before his successor Governor-elect Jeff Landry takes office, Pinsonat said this is Edwards’ last chance to remind voters while he’s still governor of the state’s progress under his leadership.
“Whether he runs or not in four years, we don’t know yet, but you certainly set the stage for reminding people of how good of a job he thinks he did and he wants people to have the same opinion,” said Pinsonat.
Edwards has stated that he plans to return to work at his law practice and spend time with his first grandchild.
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