Former governor and convicted felon Edwin Edwards added a dash of spice to Louisiana politics for more than 50 years. From casino gambling promotions to a stint in reality television, the 87-year-old has done it all.
The Cajun kingfish’s next enterprise, however, may be the most shocking of all: real estate.
Because of his criminal background, Edwards had to go before the Louisiana Real Estate Commission to obtain a broker’s license on Feb. 19. 
The commission decided with a 7-2 vote in favor of Edwards.
“Nothing in my life has ever been unanimous,” Edwards said upon hearing the decision.
Real estate is not a foreign business to Edwards. He worked as an agent from 1977 until 2001 sponsored by his late brother, Marian, who was a broker.
Edward surrendered his former license. Now, he hopes to obtain a broker’s license. 
To do so, he will have to take a 90-hour pre-licensing course and pass the broker’s exam.
LREC hearing examiner Marsha Stafford said Edwards is treated no differently than any other convicted felon applicant in this case.
“He self-reported and said he was aware that his conviction could hinder him from obtaining a professional license, so we handled his application the same way we always do,” Stafford said. 
Edwards said he also ensured he was treated equally.
“I did not ask, no one has offered, and I do not want to get any special treatment,” he said.
The former governor said he wants to develop the corridor from Lake Charles to Slidell along Interstates 10 and 12. He will be working with friends in engineering and architecture to make that a possibility.
Edwards said his knowledge of the people in the area and the opportunities the space has to offer sets him apart from other realtors. 
The ownership of a license would “facilitate [his] activities,” he said.
Former campaign intern and interdisciplinary studies senior Jon Grace said he thinks this is a good move for Edwards as he shifts his focus away from            politics.
“You wouldn’t really think he’s 87 because he’s still so full of life,” Grace said. “With real estate, I believe that’ll give him something to do and keep him on his toes, because I don’t think he’s done yet.”
Edwards’ recent loss in the 2014 congressional runoff against Garret Graves propelled him to move on to other ventures. Other local politicians left the profession, as well.
One of the most notable elections Edwards was involved in was his 1991 governor’s race against neo-Nazi David Duke. 
Though he did not take the real estate route, Duke also left the political world. He took pictures of rare birds for an Internet business in Austria six years ago. 
Duke moved to Mandeville in 2009. 
As of 2014, he is not listed as a registered voter in the state.
Comparatively, Edwards is taking on a more traditional form of retirement.
“He’s been involved with politics longer than some of our grandparents have been alive,” Grace said. “I would definitely say he deserves a separation from that … he’s done a lot that we still benefit from today.”