Treasurer Kennedy and more than 30 lawmakers win without opposition

Created: September 7, 2007 05:41 PM Modified: September 14, 2007 08:06 AM

Louisiana State Treasurer John Kennedy cleared off the desk at his campaign office today, shelving the push cards and yard signs because he won't need them this fall.

Kennedy is one of several lucky Louisiana politicians who can avoid the fall campaign season after not attracting any opposition by the close of the sign-up period this week.

Thirty-three legislators were elected outright as well, including Reps. Mike Powell and Wayne Waddell, both Republicans from Shreveport.

Among Northwest Louisiana sheriff's, Caddo Parish's Steve Prator and Bossier's Larry Deen were the only ones who have no opposition to re-election.

It was Kennedy's second re-election without a fight, though his first as a Republican. Kennedy said he was surprised he didn't attract an opponent for the Oct. 20 election, but he was savoring the moment. He had recently started running radio and TV ads in anticipation of the race.

The Louisiana Democratic Party looked for candidates to run against Kennedy once he announced his party switch at the end of August, but party spokeswoman Julie Vezinot said it was too late to find anyone.

Every other incumbent statewide elected official attracted an opponent -- though some only little-known opposition.

Gov. Kathleen Blanco is not seeking re-election.

Here are the lawmakers who won without opposition (Incumbents are noted by (i):

State Senate:

--Ben Nevers (i), D-Bogalusa.

--Dale Erdey, R-Livingston.

--Jody Amedee (i), D-Gonzales.

--Joel Chaisson (i), D-Destrehan.

--Reggie Dupre (i), D-Bourg.

--Mike Michot (i), R-Lafayette.

--Willie Mount (i), D-Lake Charles.

--Bob Kostelka (i), R-Monroe.