Following a primary where no candidate received a majority of the vote, the state’s race is headed to a runoff.
Early voting in the Louisiana governor’s race runoff begins this Saturday, Nov. 7 and runs through next Saturday, Nov.14.
Republican candidate David Vitter faces Democrat John Bel Edwards in the runoff.
NFIB Louisiana members voted by an overwhelming majority of 83% to endorse Vitter in this runoff. Small business owners made their voice heard loud and clear when asked who NFIB should endorse in the runoff because they know that if elected, John Bel Edwards will support harmful policies like increasing the minimum wage and mandating paid-sick leave.
As the race tightens, small business owners are likely keeping a close eye on where each candidate stands on business issues. Here’s a breakdown of what the race means for small business.
David Vitter
Senator Vitter declared his candidacy for governor early on and has since held small business forums to listen to issues that owners are facing.
At a recent luncheon hosted by NFIB, the Louisiana Restaurant Association and the Louisiana Retailers Association, Vitter told the crowd that he is a long-time friend of NFIB.
“We’ve had a great working relationship, and I‘m proud to be named a guardian of small business 15 years running—every year I’ve served in Congress,” Vitter said. “Over that time, I’ve had a 98 percent voting record with small business, standing with NFIB on those crucial issues to you and your business.”
John Bel Edwards
Throughout the race, Edwards, who has been a state representative since 2007, has focused on Louisiana’s budget deficit, calling it a “$6 billion problem.” He sees a balanced budget as a way to promote better commerce in the state.
Speaking at NFIB’s luncheon, Edwards expressed how he would keep jobs in state and work to create a better tax system. He also touted his small business experience and how his record will keep Louisiana’s budget balanced.
“I’m a small business man, as well,” he said. “Every now and then I have to open a line of credit to keep my business going. It is true: The building is on fire. But I didn’t … light the match.”
Edwards has also promoted equal pay initiatives during his campaign and is on record in support of increasing the minimum wage.
