Former La. Governor Buddy Roemer, Has Died.

[LSUDad]

Former Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer dead at 77

 

Updated: 12:51 PM CDT May 17, 2021

 

WDSU Digital Team

 

 

BATON ROUGE, La. —

Former Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer has died at the age of 77, according to a statement issued by his family. 

Roemer, initially a Democrat who switched to the Republican party, served as the state's governor from March of 1988 to January 1992. 

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According to the National Governor's Association, Roemer is credited with balancing the state budget for three years, increasing teacher pay, strengthening the department of environmental quality to enforce environmental laws, and toughened the laws on campaign finance. 

Roemer came in third in his 1991 campaign, losing to Edwin Edwards and David Duke, who were considered controversial candidates at the time of the election.

A father of three, Roemer was a graduate of Harvard University and prior to his political career founded two banks and ran a computer company and political consulting firm. 

He began his political career when he was elected a delegate to the Louisiana Constitutional Convention in 1972 and won election to Congress in 1980. He was re-elected three times without opposition.

The family issued the following statement on his passing: 

“Surrounded by family, Buddy peacefully passed away early this morning, following a recent illness. 

"Buddy was our loving and supportive husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, mentor and friend. 

"His charismatic presence captured the attention of audiences within moments, a talent he put to work battling corruption and waste in government, drawing attention to opportunities to improve our educational system, and building support for those in need. 

"Buddy positively impacted all who crossed his path by generously sharing his knowledge, resources, and time, regardless of station in life. His authenticity gave everyone a feeling of friendship and encouragement. 

"We are saddened by his passing but find comfort in knowing he is eternally rejoicing in the presence of our heavenly Father. We also celebrate the life he lived and the legacy he leaves behind.”

"Funeral arrangement details will be released at a later date."

Governor John Bel Edwards issued this statement on Roemer's passing:

“From the fields of Scopena to the halls of Congress and then the Governor’s Mansion, Buddy Roemer proudly represented the state he so dearly loved. His astute intellect led him to enter Harvard at the young age of 16, but he still returned to Louisiana, driven by a desire to serve. I am especially grateful for the balanced, pragmatic approach he took as governor during a turbulent time for our state’s budget. 

I hope that we will all carry on his legacy by espousing his positive, passionate approach to public service. Donna and I ask that you join your prayers to ours in praying for Gov. Roemer’s family and friends during this difficult time.” 

Cassidy released the following statement on his passing: 

“Buddy’s election as governor signaled a turning point in Louisiana’s history. He loved Louisiana, contributing to it through the public and private sector. He leaves a great legacy. My condolences to his family.”

Sen. John Kennedy issued the following statement: 

“Louisiana weeps. Buddy was one of the most interesting people I have ever met. He was immeasurably talented. All he ever wanted to do was make Louisiana better, and he did. That meant making the right people mad, but he understood that. When I count my blessings, I count Buddy twice.

“More than anything, Buddy loved his family. Becky and I are honored to count his family and loved ones as our friends. We are so sad to lose this Louisiana warrior, and we are praying for everyone who was blessed to know and love him.”

House Republican Whip Steve Scalise issued the following statement: 

“Buddy Roemer worked hard to improve the lives of all Louisiana families during his time in Congress and throughout his tenure as Governor of our great state. Buddy wasn’t afraid to speak his mind, and his education reforms helped increase teacher pay and improve standards in the classroom. Jennifer and I mourn his passing, and our prayers are with his family during this difficult time.”

Edited May 25, 2021 by LSUDad