[Cicero]

I don't know anything much about this race except what I've seen here, but I gather that Tauzin is a poor excuse for a candidate whose family connection is the only reason he was nominated. Although it's regretable to lose a Republican seat, it may be a good thing in the long run if Billy Tauzin leaves politics for some other line of business. Maybe next time they can find someone more qualified for the job.

[StJacques]

". . . it may be a good thing in the long run if Billy Tauzin leaves politics for some other line of business. Maybe next time they can find someone more qualified for the job."

In Louisiana, the strength of incumbency is very strong. Once you win a seat you own it, unless you are markedly outside the mainstream. Melancon and the Democratic Party now own this seat until he retires. And that really is a shame because the 3rd congressional district was the first one in Louisiana to elect a Republican in modern times, when Dave Treen was elected in 1972. We held the seat for at least sixteen years since then.

About the only incumbent in Washington from Louisiana who I consider vulnerable is Mary Landrieu, and we are going to go after her big time four years from now.