Mitch Landrieu, who served as the former mayor of New Orleans and co-chaired Kamala Harris’ 2024 presidential campaign, is contemplating a presidential run. When asked if he would support another bid by Harris, he refrained from a direct endorsement. Landrieu expressed admiration for Harris and her previous campaign, highlighting the challenging circumstances she faced. However, he believes that the political landscape is in search of fresh perspectives.
Landrieu shared his thoughts on potential candidates for 2028, advising those who feel a calling to run to present themselves to voters. He emphasized the need for democracy to be driven by the people rather than solely depending on presidential actions. Highlighting the lack of checks on former President Donald Trump, he stated that citizens are key to the nation’s future.
Discussing regional political dynamics, Landrieu hosts a docuseries “The Long Play” for Crooked Media, focusing on the South’s evolving political climate. He noted population shifts from states like California and New Jersey to regions like North Carolina and Tennessee as influential in reshaping politics. According to Landrieu, Democrats have neglected the South politically, and re-engagement is necessary to gain support.
In Texas, Landrieu examined the Senate race between Democrat James Talarico and Republican Ken Paxton, mentioning that Talarico’s campaign might surprise observers by its competitiveness. Polls indicate Talarico slightly leads Paxton, with Hispanic voters notably shifting their support from Trump to Talarico.
Regarding his home state of Louisiana, Landrieu acknowledged the challenges facing Democrats, seeing it as one of the last Southern states likely to lean Democratic. He commented on the evolving political allegiances, noting that working-class individuals feel disenfranchised by traditional party divisions.
Landrieu also addressed frustrations with the far left, cautioning against divisive “all or nothing” politics. As a mayor, his controversial decision to remove Confederate statues in 2017 remains a point of pride. He stands by the Biden administration’s infrastructure law, despite acknowledging limited immediate political benefits.