I doubt that our legislators realized that their push for a 124% increase in salary would lead to an awakening of the sleeping giant, the voters of Louisiana.
Never before had Louisiana voters, long accustomed to political shenanigans reacted with such fury to an action of the Legislature.
This issue struck a responsive chord for a number of reasons. The pay raise was too large and it came at a time that the “regular” people were suffering. Citizens cannot vote themselves a pay raise and neither should politicians.
As the personal income of Louisiana citizens dropped in the first quarter of 2008 and placed the state with the second worst economic situation in the nation, legislators were trying to cash in with this pay grab and become the 15th best paid Legislature in the nation.
It was unseemly and inappropriate and voters were right to react with outrage. It was an outrageous move, refuting the will of the people of Louisiana.
Now voters are reestablishing their supremacy and reminding legislators that the people are in charge. Legislators work for the public that is why they are called public servants.
So, we have recall efforts started, we have citizens expressing their opinion on websites, in letters to the editor and on talk radio.
There is also a massive voter rally set for Monday July 7 from 2-4 p.m. in Baton Rouge on the steps of the State Capitol. It is refreshing to see people getting ready to rally and express their opinion at the place where these pay raises were approved. Protestors are also scheduled to march to the Governor’s mansion. Congratulations to Steve Sabludowsky of Bayoubuzz.com and Robert Davis of LegeWatch.com for leading the charge and organizing this rally.
I encourage everyone to join the march and participate in democracy in action. This will be a rare event, but, hopefully, it will be the start of a new trend in Louisiana politics. Sending politicians a strong message every once and a while is a good thing and will make this state a better place for everyone.
Jeff Crouere is a native of New Orleans, LA and he is the host of a Louisiana based program, “Ringside Politics,” which airs at 7:30 p.m. Fri. and 10:00 p.m. Sun. on WLAE-TV 32, a PBS station, and 7 till 11 a.m. weekdays on WGSO 990 AM in New Orleans and the Northshore. For more information, visit his web site at www.ringsidepolitics.com. E-mail him at jeff@ringsidepolitics.com.
Perhaps an electronic card when it comes to getting angry and wanting to be heard, but when it comes to actual voting, I take this position, the 'push-button' approach is not always the best.... The easiest way is not always the best... Through push button, no effort is exherted, no determination, no thought or consternation, no valid fortitude is displayed... And you think there are complaints about the ignorant ones at the polls now? Just think what happens when they don't even have to put out an effort to find the polls but merely have to push a button.... Thank Gawd for launch codes and layered authority................... Written by
on 7/2/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
A fine idea. If nothing else the peoples take on matters would be there for all to see. It also would increase voter's interest in the goings on in our governance outside of election time. I still think "some" kind of direct vote should be put in place. Perhaps if the internet or swipe card voter tally indicates voter outrage was evident this would trigger a more formal "go to the polling place" type direct vote on the disputed issue. This IS the electronic age and the means is here - NOW - to allow the people to have a greater say so in our governance. These political animals are not going to offer it to us - we must demand it (or... I guess we could just trust in their "good intentions"... yeah.... that seems to be working out real well). Written by kpf
on 7/2/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I'm with you on that KPF.............. And Rhettswife, I understand your approach to simplify processes so our voices are (a) heard, and (b) matter... I think that a collective abstract of all the suggestions presented where the utilization of an electronic medium [the internet] is an issue that should be explored. I do not think it should be used as the absolute medium for casting votes, but it should not be discounted as a medium that presents your views to the politicians that are there to cast their votes in your absence....... Perhaps, and I think I read Sharon, or Rhettswife say something along these lines.... In plain simple english, the pros, and cons, and possible abstracts or reprucissons of a bill should be put down, and a yea, or nay check place posted so that the legislature gets an accurate poll on what is wanted, and what is not.... With a special area for folks from other districts to provide input if they want... We box ourselves in with one leg, from one district that should also balance not only what his constituents want, but what a feeling of others are on the subject....... Tear down the wall, it does not defeat the purpose of districts.... Rather, it broadens the understanding of our lawmakers on the subjects presented on their plates.... Written by
on 7/2/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
We have the means to "voice our opinions" on every issue - we instead have a system where we "voice our opinions" only at election time. If we do not want a system whereby we vote directly on issues (that is, "often" <weekly?>) we will only have recourse to provide our input at elections. The recall drive is probably not going to go anywhere. After all, what's the point of replacing these people with others who are just like them. You know what I mean: they notice you exist when they run for office and then forget you exist until they run again - unless you are a big contributor to their political campaign that is. "We" are the only "change" that will have any significance in providing gonvernment that is responsive to the desires of the people. Written by kpf
on 6/30/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Ridiculous...a 124% raise? Unreal.....there are many people in Lousiana who have fallen to bad times....so why should the Legislators get such a ridiculously high raise? Let's Pull together, Louisiana~!!! Written by bettybo331
on 6/29/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I've read the recall rules and it is stated that the seat will be filled in the usual way. What does that mean? Does Mitch Landrieu become Governor? Is a special election held for a new Governor? "The usual way" is not a clear answer. I would appreciate any correct information on this. Written by Harvestmoon
on 6/29/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I am so disappointed in Bobby Jindall. I looked to him as a refreshing young honest conservative that would help improve our state. I was part of the 54% of the votrs who gave him a mandate to do just that. We did not give the legislature a mandate to raise their pay. The arrognace of the legislature, and especially mine, Senator John Smith who was one of the 20 yea votes in the Senate on the final version. His vote on the initial version was absent, he says he was with a constituent when the first vote came up and they would not let him back in the chamber to vote. Hogwash!!!!
We are being played for fools, again. It is often said that we have short memories. But this is a new era, and with e-mail, blogs, and greater access to information we can continuously remind each of of what this legislature did on raising their pay and what Gov Jindal did or did not do to stop. WE WILL NEVER FORGET!!
Jonerby Written by John Ducote
on 6/29/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
It's just harder to swallow day after day, This continues to fire me up. I hope it has the same effect on everyone. I use to think that I was a republican, Now I know from the actions of these lege's that I am not. How can you consider yourself a conservative and vote to spend the tax payers money like drunking sailors? I am so glad that this issue has brought both sides together to let these abusers see that we will hold them accountable for their bad behavior. These arrogant employees of us hard working families across Louisiana don't want to here any more excuses,. If you took the pay raise and voted against it, you are just trying to fool your district. We are not as stupid as you think we are. Now lets get together and remind these arrogant servants that we hold the power and they work for us Written by Sean
on 6/29/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
It's outrageous that the legislature voted themselves a big fat pay raise in the first regular session.
They knew what the salary was when they filed to be a candidate. Any pay raise voted on should have been effective only after the 2011 election. That way voters could have decided if their current legislator or senator deserved more pay.
Where can I find a recall petition for the recall of John Bel Edwards and Ben Nevers?
I can't call them representatives. They represent only themselves, they certainly don't represent me. Written by Richard Dees
on 6/29/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I have already decided not to vote for Jindal again. Once is enough. I concider him worse than Edwards, who I have never had a high opinion of. Written by Aokgene
on 6/28/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Look at everybody scrambling for the cheap plastic Mardi Gras throws!!!!!!!! Wut a bunch of putzes.................................. Written by
on 6/28/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
don't worry, Jeff, and all you other jindal lovers. he'll chicken out and veto at the last minute. you'll get your savior back, mr. crouere. granted, he'll be damaged goods. Written by mA
on 6/28/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I never really cared about this issue and in passing would have probably voted yes. But now I am 180 degrees turned against any payraise for these folk. They do not really want it and I know for sure now the people sure don't want it. If I had been a Legislator I would have voted NO and lobbied to vote NO here, as my Constituents would have not wanted it and I represent my Constituents. I would have been very happy with their pay and perks.
Cashiers, movie extras, production assistants, school cafeteria workers, foodservice workers, retail workers, THESE PEOPLE NEED A PAYRAISE!!!
LS Written by Louisiana Sunshine
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
Would someone file a recall petition against Senator Jack Donahue who voted against the pay raise but is accepting it! It takes little brain power to figure him out. His district part of Jefferson, St Tammany and Tangipahoa! Written by Ben
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
The pay raise issue has awakened Lousiana's citizens from their lethargy, indolence, apathy and ignorance---much to the state's benefit. Where can I sign the recall petition for those who lie to the people like the governor, and then insult our intelligence by saying it will be detrimental to his working relationship with the greedy self-serving "public servants"? Next, where can I sign a recall for my "representatives" who voted themselves some more greed at the public trough? They all gotta go---from Pontious Pilate who washes his hands of the issue Jindal, to the other "good 'ole boys(and gals like Anne Duple$$i$) helping themselves. Get rid of 'em!! Written by Randall
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I think the rally is a great idea. It is symbolic and the national media will cover it. Jindal wanted to go national and now he has his chance. It also allows the recall people to find an audience and helpers. It allows the people to show their expression which you don't see with phone calls and faxes. I say, let's get going with it. I can't wait until July 7. Written by Dignity
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I would help Warrior Queen, but I am not in your district... And as far as the district I call 'home?' goes,,,, well, recall just isn't one of the things that happens here... We hope for divine intervention instead... Yes that is a shame, but in certain segments of the population, that condition does appear.... And perhaps the only answer to our prayers is going to be Pi vetoing the thing and then we can get our laugh when Butchy boy gets outed during the next election, minus the hefty retirement package he is salivating for....... He screwed more people than you can shake a stick at... He really deserves nothing except for some Pi in the face.............................. Written by
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I think a march is a good idea, however, it doesn't have the effect that recall petitions for those who voted for the pay raise would have. Maybe instead of spending time and energy gathering in Baton Rouge, there could be some sort of centralized effort to help the voters of each parish mount recall efforts of their elected officials. I am still residing out of town most of the time, but would wholeheartedly support and help to collect signatures for a petition to recall my sorry representative who started it all, Ann Duplessis. She definitely won't get my vote ever again. We traded John Johnson for her and are no better for it. Written by Warrior Queen
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
>>>>>>>>>>>>>So, we have recall efforts started, we have citizens expressing their opinion on websites, in letters to the editor and on talk radio.<<<<<<<<<<<<<< And there 'YOU' go...... And who is 'WE'? I guess this was a subject the media decided was important enough to sponsor.................. Sort of 'grey' journalism at best...... So who really runs things? The Government? The Media? or is it supposed to be the people?????? And are these things that are stirred up supposed to contribute to the overall common good???? Exactly who is it that sits around while smoking a pipe decides what is relevant to the viewers concerns???? Now it is stated that the reason they shouldn't get a 124% pay raise is because the citizens aren't doing so well...... Instead of just coming out and stating it for what it is: Their lust for power and money drove them to pass a bill that would hopefully become law that would allow them to legally extort or rob the constituency which they were elected to serve.................... Once you have that fundamental understanding then you can get on with morals that finally equate out to ethics which hopefully then can cause an instillment of the attitude to pursue what is right, rather than wrong in the State of Louisiana........... Written by ........Me, Myself, and I.........................
on 6/27/2008
REPORT SPAM OR ABUSE
I doubt that our legislators realized that their push for a 124% increase in salary would lead to an awakening of the sleeping giant, the voters of 
