Fast Eddie Announces

Edwin Edwards, our four-term governor, and convicted felon has announced his candidacy for the US House of Representatives.
Former Louisiana Gov. Edwin Edwards (D) announced Monday he will enter the race to replace Rep. Bill Cassidy (R) in the state's 6th Congressional District.

Edwards, the 86-year-old who served an eight-year prison sentence after leaving office, told a crowd in the state he would reenter the political fray despite all the reasons against it.
"I acknowledge there are good reasons I should not run. But there are better reasons why I should," he said, according The Times Picayune. 

Edwards is a much beloved politician who dominated Louisiana politics during the '80s and '90s, to include during his racketeering trial and conviction that caused him to serve an eight year sentence in the federal pen.  Lots of folks would vote for Edwin tomorrow, and it looks like they might get the chance later this year.

Instapundit goes snarky on us, saying:

  Remember when Nancy Pelosi said we needed to “drain the swamp” in Washington? Instead, the Dems are recycling crooked pols from the Bayou State.

Louisiana politics is different than everywhere else, and no one needs permission from the party to run.  We sort out our politicians in our jungle primary system, and sometimes we get weird results, like two Republicans in the runoff general election.  Edwards didn't have to ask permission from anyone to run, and I'm sure that his conviction and jail time will serve as heavy fodder in the campaigning.  Still, a crowded primary plays to Edwards strengths, and I don't doubt that his sense of humor will serve him well.  My prediction?  He'll make the runoff.