Tallulah native Gary Crockett announces run for Louisiana Governor

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - Gary Crockett, the businessman and Navy veteran who finished second to Jamie Davis in the Democratic runoff for the U.S. Senate, announced he is running for governor.

His announcement comes one day after Democrats across the country won in midterm races. Davis lost the general election to congresswoman Julia Letlow by less than two points.

“I am entering this race because I believe government should work for the people—not the other way around. Leadership must be measured not by political speeches or promises, but by meaningful results that improve the lives of everyday Louisianans,” Crockett said in a campaign announcement.

The Democrat said Louisiana can be a national leader if the state does the following:

• Economic Development: Attracting new industries, expanding existing businesses and creating high-paying jobs.
• Education: Providing our children with world-class educational opportunities and preparing them for the jobs of tomorrow.
• Infrastructure: Modernizing our roads, bridges, ports, drainage systems and public facilities.
• Health care: Improving access to quality and affordable health care throughout the state.
• Public Safety: Supporting law enforcement while investing in solutions that make our neighborhoods safer.
• Government Accountability: Ensuring taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, transparently and effectively.
• Rural and Urban Revitalization: Making sure every parish has an opportunity to participate in Louisiana’s economic future.

“What I feel is that every human should be treated with dignity and should be given a fair chance across the board,” Crockett told WVUE Fox 8 in April during his run for U.S. Senate.

Click here, to read more about Crockett’s policy positions.

A rematch between Crockett and Davis?

The election could be Crockett’s chance to best Davis. The Tensas Parish farmer beat Crockett by 21% in the primary and 60% in the runoff.

Davis, a former police juror, has already toyed with the idea of running for governor. On election night he told his supporters that Gov. Jeff Landry is “on notice.”

“Whomever it is that I support or endorse, the Jamie Davis machine will be behind that candidate and I will not rule out that it won’t be me,” Davis said in an interview on Thursday, Nov. 5, 2026.

During that interview, Davis added that he would run for the U.S. Senate in 2028 if he doesn’t run for governor. That Senate seat is currently held by Sen. John Kennedy, who has not announced a reelection bid as of writing.

Gov. Landry also hasn’t announced a reelection bid and is eligible for a second term.

Louisiana’s gubernatorial election will happen on Oct. 9, 2027. The filing deadline is Aug. 5, 2027.