There are many decisions facing the voters on Nov. 2, but the most interesting vote cast may be the one for the next governor of Louisiana. I know, I know, the governor’s race isn’t until next year, but the political chatter from DC to dog catcher is that the lieutenant governor chosen by the voters next week could end up being our next governor by default.

Why, you ask? We’ve all heard about the national travels of Gov. Jindal and the possibility of him being a president, vice president or cabinet member in the future. If any of these scenarios occurs and causes Jindal to vacate his governorship, the sitting lieutenant governor would automatically assume the position of governor, according to the Louisiana State Constitution.

Your choice for the next lieutenant governor (and possibly the next governor) is between current Secretary of State Jay Dardenne, a Republican, and political newcomer and attorney Caroline Fayard, a Democrat. Dardenne is widely believed to be the favorite based on the conservative tide sweeping the nation; however, if turnout in New Orleans is higher than the rest of the state due to the highly contested 2nd Congressional District race between Congressman Joseph Cao and state Rep. Cedric Richmond then the lieutenant governor’s race could be closer than political pundits are predicting.

Both candidates have offered the people of Louisiana a positive image of how they would represent the state as the lieutenant governor, the chief promoter of Louisiana. In addition, each has touched on their fiscal management styles in an effort to hint at their ability to serve as governor if Gov. Jindal takes a step up the political ladder. With so much focus on the federal Senate and Congressional elections, it will be interesting to see which way the votes go in this race.

The decision is yours so Geaux Vote! Nov. 2 is Election Day for the United States Senate, Congress, Louisiana lieutenant governor, and St. John the Baptist Parish school board. Influence your country…VOTE.

The last bite…

Friday, I had the pleasure of treating a high profile St John elected official to lunch at Pier 51 Restaurant in LaPlace. I have to admit, it had been years since I’ve been there, but the time lapse only made the food that much better. I ordered the seafood platter and was thoroughly impressed. Not only was the serving size ample for lunch, but the flavor was great. The fried soft shell buster crab and flaky fried tilapia were awesome. The hush puppies were good but could have used a little jalapeno to kick them up a notch. I give it 4 Crumbs! (out of 5)

  Buddy Boe, a resident of LaPlace, is a former parish administrator and is well known on the local political (and food) scenes.