KPLC 7 News, Lake Charles, Louisiana |Odom trying to convince Breaux to run for governor

Odom trying to convince Breaux to run for governor

February 15, 2006
Reported by the Associated Press

Agriculture Commissioner Bob Odom says that he has lost confidence in Governor Kathleen Blanco's ability to lead and is trying to convince retired U.S. Senator John Breaux to run for her seat in 2007.

When asked if he thought Blanco could turn the state around, Odom said, "No, I don't."

Odom made his remarks after a speech he delivered during a West Monroe-West Ouachita Chamber of Commerce luncheon at the West Monroe Convention Center.

Odom said he and "several others" - who he didn't identify - were putting together a poll that they hope to use to convince Breaux to run.

Breaux, who retired from the Senate in 2005, works for the Washington lobbying firm Patton Boggs. His spokesman Brian Hale said Breaux was aware of Odom's efforts but offered no further comment.

Blanco has consistently said that she will seek re-election.

Blanco and Odom have been at odds since she blocked his attempt to build an $85 million sugar mill in Bunkie. Without Blanco's support, the state Bond Commission never approved the project.

Odom said he has talked to Breaux and that the former senator is interested.