This story has been revised since its original publication to clarify that Robert Cipriano transferred, rather than sold, the domain name rights to an unnamed constituent.
Unsuspecting visitors to the website Stevecarterla.com might be surprised to see a somewhat unflattering picture of the local state representative accompanied by text that accuses of him raising taxes, wasteful spending and contributing to the decline in the state’s public school system during his two terms in the Louisiana legislature.
“8 years of results like this wasn’t enough,” a banner at the bottom of the web page reads. “I want 4 more.”
Was Carter’s website hacked?
Actually, the domain was purchased by Carter’s opponent in the upcoming District 68 race, Robert Cipriano, after the veteran legislator failed to renew his registration. The site is used primarily during campaign season and Carter says he foolishly forgot to renew it, making the domain name fair game for anyone who wanted it.
Cipriano confirms he bought the rights to the domain name but says he did not create the disparaging website. Rather, he says he transferred it to an unnamed constituent in the district. Cipriano concedes he knew the person taking over the site was “unhappy” with Carter and intended to use it against him, but he says he was not directly involved.
“But we will be using the internet and all social media to help spread our campaign message,” Cipriano says.
Meanwhile, Carter has bought a new domain name, stevecarter4la.com, and has moved his campaign-related content to that site. He has also reprinted all his campaign signage to reflect the new web address.
“I’m trying to take the high road,” Carter says, declining further comment.
