Alarcon Declares for Louisiana Governor's Race

Just one day after taking the oath of office for the City Council seat he won in March's primary, Richard Alarcon announced he will be a Democratic candidate for Governor of Louisiana.

A number of Republicans and Democrats are seeking to succeed current Democratic governor Kathleen Blanco who is retiring.

The first round of what Louisiana calls its "jungle" open primary will be held October 20th. Should no candidate in the primary receive a majority of votes, a run-off between the top two vote getters will be held November 17th.

Alarcon will join a field that includes among others Democrats John Breaux and Mitch Landrieu and Republicans Walter Bossaso and Bobby Jindal.

Alarcon cited his vast political experience and his three trips to New Orleans as making him ideal for the post.