In a significant development in the race for Louisiana governor, U.S. Rep. Steve Scalise, the second-ranking House Republican in Congress, officially endorsed Attorney General Jeff Landry on Thursday. In a one-minute video announcement, Scalise voiced his unwavering support for Landry, emphasizing the need for a leader with courage, vision, and a proven track record in defending Louisiana families.
Scalise's endorsement comes as a testament to Landry's commitment to conservative values and his unwavering stance against what he describes as "big government" policies that threaten the Louisiana way of life. The endorsement video was filmed in what appeared to be an office, where Scalise highlighted his long-standing friendship with Landry, forged during Landry's tenure representing Louisiana's 3rd U.S. Congressional District on Capitol Hill.
"One of the most important elections of our time is just around the corner," Scalise affirmed. "We need a governor with the courage, vision, and proven track record of standing up for our families. We need someone who will finally get our state moving in the right direction. I know that Jeff Landry is that leader."
Scalise's endorsement adds to the growing list of prominent GOP figures and interest groups backing Landry's campaign. Notable supporters include the Louisiana Republican Party, U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, and various local Republican organizations. Landry's campaign, marked by his conservative stance on national issues like abortion and library book access, has also garnered significant financial backing and strong support from voters, according to recent polls.
The race for Louisiana governor saw another notable development as State Rep. Richard Nelson, a Mandeville Republican who championed an ambitious policy platform but struggled in the polls, withdrew from the race on Wednesday and endorsed Landry.
The remaining candidates in the race include Stephen Waguespack, a former business lobbyist running as a Republican; State Sen. Sharon Hewitt, R-Slidell; Republican State Treasurer John Schroder; former Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson, a Democrat; and attorney Hunter Lundy, who remains politically independent. The endorsement from Scalise further energizes Landry's campaign as the race for Louisiana governor intensifies.