A new Legislative class was sworn in last week and for the first time in nearly a century, Louisiana finds itself without a member of the Long family serving in public office.
The political dynasty began with Governor Huey Long the firecracker leftwing populist who pushed a massive public works program, built Tiger Stadium, but was also impeached. Former Senator Gerald Long says the Kingfish is a Louisiana icon.
“When you begin to look at leadership and those who built Louisiana from the ground up, regardless of one’s political persuasion, Huey Long raised the bar,” says Long.
Huey Long was assassinated in 1935 in the midst of a presidential challenge to FDR, who’s “New Deal” according to Long didn’t go far enough in redistributing wealth.
After Huey, a series of Longs joined state politics at all levels. Gerald Long says the family has a gift for keeping the pulse of state politics.
“The key to being a good public servant is the ability for people to identify with you as someone who cares about their needs,” says Long.
Some prominent members of the dynasty include three-term Governor Earl Long, US Senator Earl B Long, US Representatives Speedy, Gillis, and Catherine Long, and State Representative Jimmy Long.
Gerald Long served as a Republican Senator for Natchitoches during his time at the Capitol and says the Longs will be best known for their consistency.
“Public education, healthcare, and to be very mindful of those who have not, those who maybe don’t have a voice as loud as others,” says Long.
