Mitch Landrieu

Date of Birth: August 16, 1960

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Biography

Mitchell Joseph Landrieu, commonly known as Mitch Landrieu, is an American politician and attorney who has made significant contributions to public service in Louisiana and the broader United States. Born into a politically active family, Landrieu’s father, Moon Landrieu, served as Mayor of New Orleans and Secretary of Housing and Urban Development under President Jimmy Carter. Mitch Landrieu followed in his family’s footsteps by pursuing a career in law and politics. Landrieu began his political career as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives, where he served from 1988 to 2004. During his tenure, he was known for his work on criminal justice reform and economic development. In 2004, he was elected as Lieutenant Governor of Louisiana, a role he held until 2010. As Lieutenant Governor, Landrieu was instrumental in promoting tourism and culture, particularly in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. In 2010, Mitch Landrieu was elected as the Mayor of New Orleans, a position he held until 2018. His tenure as mayor was marked by efforts to rebuild and revitalize the city following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. He is particularly noted for his leadership in removing Confederate monuments from the city, a decision that garnered national attention and sparked significant debate. After his tenure as mayor, Landrieu has remained active in public discourse, focusing on issues such as racial equity and urban development. He has also authored a book, “In the Shadow of Statues: A White Southerner Confronts History,” which discusses his experiences and the broader implications of his decision to remove Confederate statues.

5 Interesting Facts about Mitch Landrieu

1. Mitch Landrieu is the first white Mayor of New Orleans since his father, Moon Landrieu, left office in 1978.

2. He served as the President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors from 2017 to 2018.

3. Landrieu’s decision to remove Confederate statues in New Orleans was influenced by the 2015 Charleston church shooting.

4. He has been recognized with numerous awards for his leadership, including being named Public Official of the Year by Governing Magazine in 2015.

5. Mitch Landrieu is an advocate for criminal justice reform and has worked extensively on initiatives to reduce gun violence.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Mitch Landrieu

1. “We cannot be afraid of our truth. History is what it is, but we have the power to change the narrative.”

2. “When people say ‘Mitch, you’re taking down history,’ I say, ‘No, I’m not. I’m actually changing history.’”

3. “The removal of these statues sends a clear and unequivocal message to the people of New Orleans and to the world that New Orleans celebrates our diversity, inclusion, and tolerance.”

4. “We have a moral obligation to confront racism and bigotry in all its forms.”

5. “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.”