Politics of Louisiana

Politics in Louisiana have always been a controversial yet interesting combination. Ever since the beginning of statehood, Louisiana has been a traditionally conservative state full of middle class whites and blacks. According to a CNN poll, about 40% of Louisiana voters are politically conservative.

Louisiana has been a marginally liberal state for decades, mainly due to the influence of urban New Orleans and its large African American population. Marginal is a good description, because Democrats have won statewide elections over the years, but by very narrow margins.

In the decades following the Civil Rights Movement and a concomitant reaction against cultural liberalism, the Republican Party and its candidates have gained strength in the conservative suburbs of New Orleans and Baton Rouge, and increasing support among rural voters elsewhere in Southeast Louisiana. These patterns are in keeping with those of other Southern states.

The political balance in Louisiana will likely be effected by the post-Hurricane Katrina exodus from New Orleans and the state. Heavily Democratic New Orleans has lost half of its population, and it appears many of the former residents will not be returning. This will likely reduce the Democrats' base of support in the state and could make Louisiana a Republican leaning state in the future.

ee also

*United States congressional delegations from Louisiana
*List of Governors of Louisiana

External links

*dmoz|Regional/North_America/United_States/Louisiana/Society_and_Culture/Politics