Governor’s race steps up pace

To say this year’s gubernatorial contest is heating up might be an overstatement, but there are campaign-related activities to note. For example, Gov. Bobby Jindal’s campaign bought up TV time statewide this week to debut its newest commercial. It focuses on job creation, which is the theme of Jindal’s bid for re-election. The 30-second spot, called “Spirit of Louisiana,” highlights major economic development coups in practically every populous portion of the state. It can be viewed here. Jindal’s only declared opponent, Haynesville school teacher Tara Hollis, a Democrat, is taking a different approach. She issued a press release taking Jindal to task on the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Recent media reports have shown that participants have been saddled with substandard work in certain cases, while others continue to wait on checks; a contractor connected to the program has been arrested for fraud. “I have noticed a trend with Jindal; it appears he has been waiting till right before the election to start doing his job,” Hollis says. “The people on the coast have needed this money since he took office, and he is just now getting around to issuing checks.” Administration officials have taken responsibility for the oversights and contend the problems are being addressed. Meanwhile, state Sen. Rob Marionneaux, D-Livonia, could become Jindal’s second challenger. He told reporters recently he could make a decision as soon as this week. —Jeremy Alford