Louisiana 4: Fleming’s Poll Shows Wide Lead in Primary

By Nathan L. Gonzales

John Fleming is ahead in the crowded GOP field in Louisiana’s 4th district, according to a recently-released poll for his campaign.

Fleming, who is a doctor and a businessman, received 43 percent in the survey, conducted July 25-27 by Southern Media & Opinion Research. Businessman Chris Gorman, who works for his family’s trucking company, was second with 17 percent, and former Bossier Chamber of Commerce President Jeff Thompson was third with 15 percent.

Retiring Rep. Jim McCrery (R) threw his support behind Thompson, hoping to propel him to the top of a field of previously unknown candidates. But according to this survey, Fleming is in the driver’s seat with a month to go before the Sept. 6 primary.

The winner of the GOP primary will face Caddo district attorney Paul Carmouche (D), in what is expected to be a very competitive race, particularly in light of recent Democratic success in the special elections in Louisiana’s 6th district and Mississippi’s 1st district. Carmouche is on the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee’s list of “Red to Blue” candidates who are targeted to receive help from the national party.

This item first appeared on RollCall.com on August 4, 2008. 2008 © Roll Call Inc. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission.