The I-10 Calcasieu Bridge project’s recent “costume change” under Louisiana’s new Gov. Jeff Landry exemplifies how partisan politics can eclipse public interest. This saga, dating back to 2017, saw former Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson and former Gov. John Bel Edwards propose a toll-free bridge, a plan the GOP majority leader axed in committee to deny the Democratic Governor a “win.”

Fast forward to 2021, President Joe Biden, backed by mostly US Congressional Democrats, earmarks $5.8 billion for Louisiana infrastructure projects over five years, covering bridge funds. Yet, the Louisiana GOP heavily resisted this plan in Congress.

Finally, last year, Gov. Edwards’ bridge proposal was scuttled and delayed again in committee, this time by the Southwest LA GOP legislative delegation. Now, under newly elected GOP Gov. Jeff Landry, this initiative suddenly reemerges, virtually unchanged but heralded as groundbreaking.

This week’s SWLA Chamber event cameo by the new governor, ostensibly celebrating the bridge’s commencement, was more political theater than infrastructure focus.

It’s a glaring reminder that in politics, appearances often overshadow substance. These developments, feasible seven years ago sans tolls, were hindered by GOP obstruction. This episode is a cautionary tale about how political gamesmanship can stall progress, emphasizing the need for leaders who value public welfare over partisan agendas.

Ultimately, the I-10 bridge is more than a structure; it’s a symbol of the costume changes in politics, where leaders’ true intentions are often cloaked under layers of political maneuvering.

Dustin Granger is a former candidate for Louisiana State Treasurer.