Much as expected, Rep. Bill Cassidy and Sen. Mary Landrieu were the top finishers in a field of eight, and will be squaring off in a Dec. 6 runoff election.
“We have 32 more days. This is not over yet,” said a smiling, energized Cassidy to a campaign party crowd of several hundred supporters in Baton Rouge.
Landrieu, speaking to her supporters in New Orleans, declared she’s been ready all along battle the Congressman—who she has accused of dodging debates—one-on-one.
“We have the race that we want, and Bill Cassidy, you cannot run, you cannot hide anymore. This race is starting tonight!” Landrieu said over the cheers and jeers of those attending her party.
Landrieu, a Democrat, got 42 percent of the vote in Tuesday’s jungle primary, while Cassidy, a Republican, garnered 41 percent. Another Republican, retired Air Force colonel Rob Maness, pulled in 14 percent. Cassidy said during his speech that he’d already spoken to Maness, who has promised to back Cassidy’s campaign.
Because neither Landrieu nor Cassidy could claim outright victory Tuesday night, their speeches focused on the next salvos in these continuing campaigns.
“The question facing the voters in Louisiana will be a very simple one. Which candidate has the proven record of standing up, fighting and delivering for our state?” Landrieu rallied her crowd.
Cassidy used his oft-repeated rhetoric, as well.
“Do you want a senator who represents Barack Obama?” Cassidy asked and was answered with a shouted, “No!”
“Or a senator that represents you?” he then asked, and received a deafeningly roared, “Yes!”
So, campaign signs will remain standing and political ads will continue to dominate the airwaves till the week after Thanksgiving. To be continued…