I guess the writer for Politico has never met Ed. He could charm the Naugahide off a couch and turn it into a pocketbook with money inside.
Slicker than Bill Clinton (if that is possible), damned good looking even at his age (his hair is to die for), and so full of himself that you’ll find his picture in the dictionary under “Super Ego”.
I liked the bastard when I knew him. A typical Louisiana old school politician. As crooked as they come and proud of it.
IOW, one with whom you knew where you stood and was at least predictable in his moves. Law enforcement took note of that, too.