NEW ORLEANS — Sen. Mary Landrieu’s, D-La., “Women with Mary Geaux Vote” event Saturday at the Sugar Mill of New Orleans opened with a number of prominent Louisiana and Texas Democrats speaking on Landrieu’s behalf. But the crowd anxiously awaited the appearance of former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to show her support for Landrieu’s campaign.
The event focused on Landrieu’s policies for women, and some speakers brought a lighter side — comparing Landrieu to New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees. Former Sen. John Breaux said Louisiana is good at two things: football and politics.
Both Landrieu and Clinton appealed to the large group of mothers and grandmothers that comprised most of the audience.
“I have joined the grandmothers’ club,” Clinton said. “It’s a fabulous club. It makes you really think about what’s important in life, doesn’t it?”
Clinton said having a grandchild makes her think about the future of the U.S. and how to keep the American dream alive for future generations.
“Women with Mary” banners were strung throughout the venue, and women wearing pink “Women with Mary” T-shirts dotted the crowd.
Prior to her stop in New Orleans, Clinton had been stumping for another Democratic candidate in Kentucky, where she said women — just like in Louisiana — are paid less for doing the same work as men.
She referenced some estimates that the wage gap in Louisiana is worse than in any other state in the U.S. If women’s pay were raised to be equal with men’s, Clinton said, women would stimulate the economy by spending their money in Louisiana.
“This is a family issue, a fairness issue and an economic issue,” she said.
In an attempt to include the men in the room, Clinton said they would also benefit from Landrieu’s policies like raising the minimum wage and benefits.
“The economic policies Mary promotes works for people,” Clinton said.
Clinton also spoke about Landrieu’s character and record in the U.S. Senate, comparing Landrieu’s work to support Louisiana residents after Hurricane Katrina to her efforts after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11.
Clinton said Landrieu is a relentless workhorse, putting people ahead of politics.
“I saw how she cares more about citizenship than partisanship,” she said.
Clinton indirectly referenced Landrieu’s opponent, Rep. Bill Cassidy, R-La., throughout the event.
“From what I’ve heard, Mary’s opponent didn’t really lift a finger after Isaac,” Clinton said.
City Council member LaToya Cantrell and state Sen. Karen Carter Peterson, D-New Orleans, both spoke of Cassidy’s opposition to the final Violence Against Women Act reauthorization. Cantrell said she questioned how anyone could vote against an act that provides protections and assistance programs for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking, as well as authorizes funds for law enforcement training programs, prosecution and victim services.
The Democratic speakers ensured that none of this would be possible unless voters turn out on Tuesday.
Breaux said Louisiana has shown a record turnout in early voting, jokingly encouraging voters to come out again on Tuesday.
Clinton spoke about the importance of participating in the election. She said during her time serving as Secretary of State, she traveled to 112 countries.
“There were many places where people were literally dying to vote,” Clinton said.
She said voters must vote for their dreams, not their fears.
Clinton concluded the night by saying, “Give her [Landrieu] three days for six more years.”
Numerous University students attended the Landrieu event, including international studies senior Michelle Lowry.
“It’s a great experience to see someone who has had such an impact on politics and might have an even greater one,” Lowry said.