Dismissing congressional clout concerns

Not too long ago, at least in reporter years, I was utilizing the space in this weekly column with some regularity to write about the loss of influence and clout in Louisiana's congressional delegation. In doing so, I was probably repeating rather than reporting from Baton Rouge's echo chamber. Cooler heads knew there was an uncomplicated explanation, supported by recent history, that I had largely ignored — and that was the cyclical nature of political trends.

As I reflected on this theme over the weekend, it occurred to me that the storyline was a staple for political opinion writers in the Bayou State from 2003 to 2014. Former U.S. Sen. John Breaux exited elected life first, followed by Congressman Billy Tauzin, which prompted worry about the lack of locals in key leadership and committee positions. 

As for the lower chamber, Congressman Ralph Abraham, who represents portions of northeast and central Louisiana, is the chairman of an oversight subcommittee on science, space and technology. He's also a notable voice on the agriculture committee and landed a seat this year at the farm bill’s final negotiating table. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves, meanwhile, has a distinct policy niche on water-related issues, which is as invaluable to Louisiana as his assignments to the natural resources and transportation committees.

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