
Elbert Guillory, a former Democrat turned Republican, shakes up Louisiana politics with a bold campaign ad explaining his party switch.
At a Glance
- Elbert Guillory, former Louisiana state senator, released an ad detailing his switch from Democrat to Republican
- Guillory argues the GOP has historically championed Black rights, criticizing Democratic Party’s history
- He’s running as the sole Republican candidate in an upcoming Louisiana primary election
- Guillory advocates for minimal government intervention and common-sense solutions
- The district he’s contesting is rated “Solid Democratic” after 2022 redistricting
A Bold Move in Louisiana Politics
Former Louisiana state Senator Elbert Guillory has stirred the political waters with a provocative campaign advertisement explaining his decision to switch from the Democratic to the Republican Party. As the only Republican candidate in an upcoming Louisiana primary election, Guillory’s move has drawn significant attention to his campaign for the Louisiana House.
Elbert Guillory: "Why I Am a Republican" https://t.co/KpSkMDiFAJ via @YouTube
INTELLIGENCE, TRUTH AND REASONING
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In his ad, Guillory presents a narrative that positions the Republican Party as historically pivotal in championing the rights of the Black community. He argues that the GOP’s roots as an abolitionist movement have been overshadowed by what he sees as misleading Democratic policies.
Historical Context and Critique
Guillory doesn’t pull punches when critiquing the Democratic Party’s history. He points to the party’s past involvement with Jim Crow laws and what he perceives as their non-support of civil rights measures. In a striking statement, Guillory declares, “The Democratic Party has created the illusion that their agenda and their policies are what’s best for Black people. Somehow, it’s been forgotten that the Republican Party was founded in 1842 as an abolitionist movement.”
Guillory’s critique extends beyond historical contexts. He takes aim at contemporary Democratic policies, particularly welfare programs, which he argues are designed to control rather than uplift the Black community. This stance aligns with his broader political philosophy of minimal government intervention in people’s lives.
Guillory’s Political Journey
Guillory’s political career has been marked by change. He previously switched from Republican to Democrat in 2007 when he first ran for the state House of Representatives. However, he maintained a conservative voting record throughout his tenure. In 2013, Guillory made headlines by switching back to the Republican Party, becoming the first black Republican senator in Louisiana since Reconstruction.
“Is it a surprise, or is it the worst-kept secret in Louisiana? I am, as of this day, joining Frederick Douglass as a Republican.” – Elbert Guillory
His latest campaign for the Louisiana House is characterized by a focus on common-sense solutions and reducing government involvement in personal affairs. Guillory has been vocal about his opposition to what he sees as political backroom deals, particularly criticizing the redrawing of the Sixth Congressional District.
Looking Ahead
As the sole Republican candidate in his district, Guillory faces an uphill battle in an area rated “Solid Democratic” after redistricting in 2022. However, he remains confident about his campaign’s reception and anticipates either winning or entering a runoff in the election.
Guillory positions himself as an experienced and level-headed candidate capable of working across political, racial, and religious lines. His campaign continues to draw attention, not just for its political stance, but for the broader discussions it provokes about party loyalty, racial politics, and the role of government in people’s lives.