Louisiana’s June 27 runoff election could bring low turnout, but Jeff Crouere says voters still have several races worth watching.
Crouere, host of Ringside Politics, joined Talk 107.3 and said he expects turnout to land between 15% and 20%. He said many voters already felt they made their point in the primary, especially after U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy failed to advance in the Republican race.
The U.S. Senate runoff between Congresswoman Julia Letlow and State Treasurer John Fleming has drawn the most attention. Crouere said the race has turned bitter, with strong attacks coming from supporters on both sides. Still, he believes most Republicans will support the winner before the November election because control of the U.S. Senate remains a major national issue.
Crouere also pointed to two other runoffs in southeast Louisiana. In Public Service Commission District 1, former Jefferson Parish President John Young faces state Rep. Stephanie Hilferty. The PSC regulates utilities, which makes the race important for voters concerned about monthly bills.
Voters will also decide a Republican runoff for the District 1 seat on the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Former Congressman Joseph Cao faces longtime educator Ellie Schroder in that race.
The election also serves as an early test of Louisiana’s new party-primary system. Crouere said he supports true closed primaries, but he questioned the current setup because voters with no party affiliation can still choose a party ballot.
Before turning to politics, Crouere said the World Cup has given Americans a welcome break from division. He said international fans reacting to Waffle House, Walmart and yellow school buses offered a reminder of what makes the country special.
Election Day is Saturday, June 27.