Jeff Landry takes office as Louisiana governor
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Jeff Landry takes the oath of office Sunday in preparation for his role to change Monday from governor-elect to governor in Louisiana.
Why it matters: With John Bel Edwards and Landry trading places inside the Governor's Mansion, Louisiana will lose its title as the only state led by a Democrat in the Deep South.
What's happening: Landry’s inauguration ceremony is at 4:30pm on the steps of the Louisiana State Capitol.
- The event was moved up over the weekend due to expected rain Monday.
- A ball follows Monday.
Worth noting: Taking the oath doesn't officially make Landry governor yet.
- According to the Louisiana Constitution, that transition happens at noon Monday, regardless when the ceremony occurs.
Catch up fast: Low turnout fueled Landry's election to governor in October's jungle primary. He took 51.56% of the vote and negated the need for a runoff election.
- Landry's victory was part of a big sweep for Republicans in the state. For the first time since Reconstruction, the GOP will hold the governor's office and supermajorities in the state legislature, not to mention a Republican in every statewide elected office.
Meanwhile: Prior to his election to governor, Landry has had a fraught relationship with New Orleans, often pursuing social politics that run counter to the city's progressive lean.
- But that dynamic appears to be shifting. In a recent press conference, Landry appeared chummy with New Orleans District Attorney Jason Williams as the pair announced a new partnership between Williams' office and the state attorney general's office.
- Plus, Landry called for a New Orleans-focused transitional committee to put suggestions on his desk for how to help the city forward.
Between the lines: Landry stepping into the role of governor in 2024 also presents a fascinating political backdrop for the state during a presidential election year.
- Landry has long been tight with former President Donald Trump, who is heavily favored to win the GOP's presidential nomination. Landry has already tapped a former Trump administration official to be the state’s environmental quality secretary.
- Louisiana has backed Trump twice, and it's hard to imagine that changing if the state is given a third chance in this year's election.
- But if Trump doesn't win the nomination, or loses the general election, it'll be interesting to watch how that affects Landry's relationship with Washington, D.C.
What's next: As Landry gets used to his new Baton Rouge digs, state political leaders are preparing for the first of two special sessions due to begin in a week as they race to redraw Louisiana's congressional map.
Editor's note: This post was updated to reflect that Landry will not keep his predecessor's chickens at the governor's mansion, according to Louisiana Illuminator.