If they are thinking about it, present legislators want to nip it in the bud. A constitutional amendment on the November ballot would stop either former governor Bobby Jindal or John Bel Edwards from seeking a third term. Both would be eligible to run since they have sat out at least one term.
Proposed Amendment 4 would establish a lifetime limit of two terms for Louisiana governors.
While current state law restricts governors from serving more than two consecutive terms, it technically allows them to run again after sitting out for a term.
Because other former Louisiana governors have passed away, this amendment directly impacts only Jindal and Edwards, alongside any future two-term governors.
The Louisiana Democratic Party has voted to oppose the measure, arguing it is a self-serving political tactic aimed at preventing the two-term Democrat John Bel Edwards from mounting a future comeback.
However, the amendment’s sponsor, State Rep. Mike Bayham (R-Chalmette), insists the legislation is nonpartisan and designed to prevent political recycling, allowing “new blood” and fresh candidates a fair chance without competing against established political machines.
If approved by a simple majority of voters on November 3, the measure could still face legal challenges regarding whether it can be applied retroactively to former leaders.
