Have ya noticed? Louisiana is holding an US Senate contest in just two-and-a-half weeks.  While fixating on Fox, CNN or MSNBC taking in the latest from the Presidential drama on TV, perhaps you might have seen an ad or two promoting the Senatorial contest.  Or, maybe you haven't.

But, it's true. There is an election on November 3rd. And looking back, a mere six years ago, what a difference time and politics can make.


For those keeping score, as the state begins its early voting today, the Republican incumbent Bill Cassidy is facing a major Democrat Party challenger, Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins, who has great credentials. He’s has a West Point education, Harvard law degree and military stints in Iraq and Afghanistan.

What a profound difference makes six years!

Back in February 2014, Louisiana was embroiled in a hotly-contested free-for-all for the U.S. Senate position. Retired, and unknown Air Force Colonel Rob Maness had just announced his candidacy to oust Senator Mary Landrieu, the powerful senior Democrat US Senator. Landrieu, generally had been hailed as the hero from the Hurricane Katrina wars fighting the emotional unending battles to save South Louisiana and New Orleans.  However, Landrieu faced one major obstacle--President Barack Obama who down in these parts was less popular than the BP Oil Spill (if that were possible). 

Former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu finally has no political office to hold for the first time in three decades. Look for him to want to change that as soon as possible.

It all begins with a run for president in 2020, now that today he turned over the reins of city government. Keep in mind that Landrieu has worked outside of government for just a few years, right out of law school, and knows nothing else but politics, especially growing up in the household of a former legislator, mayor, U.S. Cabinet member, and state judge.

This is what happens when Louisiana loses mighty congressional "secret sauce" or, otherwise known as, "clout"..