Former Gov. Buddy Roemer dies at age 77

Former Louisiana Gov. Buddy Roemer, whose term at the end of the Eighties oil crunch was marked by attempts at good-government reforms, died Monday in Baton Rouge.

Roemer, who also represented the Shreveport area in the U.S. House of Representatives, served as governor 1988-92.

Roemer took office after Edwin Edwards, who both preceded and succeeded Roemer as governor, withdrew from the 1987 gubernatorial runoff. In 1991, Roemer finished third in the gubernatorial primary before Edwards beat David Duke in the general election.

Roemer won election as governor as a Democrat but became a Republican before the 1991 election.

U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., released the following statement on the passing of Roemer:

“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.”

U.S. Sen. John Kennedy, R-La., released this 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.”

Gov. John Bel Edwards released this statement:

“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.”

Edwards has ordered flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Gov. Roemer’s life and legacy on May 17.