Roemer is the rare candidate who has congressional, gubernatorial, and business experience, as well as a sound mix of substance and style.
He likes to point out that he’s the only “guy running who’s been both a governor and a congressman.” As governor, Roemer balanced Louisiana’s budget, cut the state’s unemployment rate by about half, and enacted campaign-finance reform legislation.
Besides more than a decade of experience in elected office, the former governor is a talented orator. He spouts populist one-liners – “I think privilege is fine, but we need to be a party of plain people,” – with old-fashioned Southern charm.
“He’s an affable, smart guy,” O’Connell says, “and he gives a great stump speech.”
With presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich faltering and Texas Gov. Rick Perry yet to enter the race, “He could portray himself as the Southern candidate,” adds Professor Lichtman.
