Donald Cazayoux Jr.

Donald J. Cazayoux Jr. is a former American politician and lawyer who served as a Democratic United States Representative for Louisiana's 6th congressional district from 2008 to 2009. He was elected to fill a vacancy and became the first Democrat to hold the seat since 1974. Following his congressional tenure, Cazayoux was appointed as the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, a position he held from 2010 to 2013. His political career is marked by a focus on moderate-to-conservative Democratic values, particularly in a state where such positions are prevalent.

Early life and career

Cazayoux was born on January 17, 1964, in New Roads, Louisiana. He is the son of Donald J. Cazayoux and Ann Cazayoux. His family has deep roots in the region, with his paternal grandparents being Jules Joseph Cazayoux Jr. and Ida Belle Glynn Cazayoux. Raised in a Roman Catholic household, Cazayoux completed his secondary education at the Catholic High School of Pointe Coupee in 1982. He pursued higher education at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree. He later attended Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., where he obtained his Juris Doctor.

After completing his education, Cazayoux began his professional career in law, initially practicing as an attorney. He transitioned into public service by becoming a prosecutor for Pointe Coupee Parish, where he served as an assistant district attorney under Richard "Ricky" Ward in the 18th Judicial Court. During his time as a prosecutor, Cazayoux gained a reputation for his effectiveness in the courtroom, achieving a record of never losing a jury trial.

In 1999, Cazayoux entered the political arena by winning a seat in the Louisiana Legislature, representing District 18. This district is known for its strong Democratic leanings and includes areas such as Pointe Coupee Parish, Iberville, West Baton Rouge, and West Feliciana parishes. His tenure in the state legislature was notable; he became one of the few freshmen legislators to be appointed to the influential Appropriations Committee. Cazayoux focused on legislation aimed at enhancing law enforcement's ability to combat child sexual predators, reflecting his commitment to public safety and community welfare.

House tenure

Cazayoux's entry into the U.S. House of Representatives came after he announced his candidacy for Louisiana's 6th congressional district following the resignation of Republican Congressman Richard H. Baker. He secured the Democratic nomination with the backing of the national party, defeating fellow state representative Michael L. Jackson in the primary election. Cazayoux's victory in the special election held on May 3, 2008, marked a significant moment in Louisiana politics, as he became the first Democrat to represent the district since 1974. He was sworn into office on May 6, 2008.

His time in Congress was brief, as he faced a challenging re-election campaign later that year. In the general election held in November 2008, Cazayoux was defeated by Republican nominee Bill Cassidy, who garnered a larger share of the vote. The election was competitive, with Cazayoux receiving approximately 40 percent of the votes cast. His defeat was influenced by various factors, including the entry of Jackson as an independent candidate, who reportedly siphoned votes that could have supported Cazayoux. This election was part of a broader trend in which several incumbent House Democrats were defeated during the 2008 congressional elections.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House, Cazayoux was known for his moderate-to-conservative stance on various issues, which aligned with the political landscape of Louisiana outside of New Orleans. He was recognized for his opposition to abortion and gun control, reflecting the values of many constituents in his district. Cazayoux also advocated for the expansion of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) and expressed support for the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq, positioning himself as a representative who balanced traditional Democratic values with the more conservative inclinations of his electorate.

Cazayoux's legislative work and committee assignments during his brief tenure were indicative of his focus on issues relevant to his constituents. While specific details of his committee assignments are not provided, his background in law and public service likely informed his approach to legislation, particularly in areas related to justice, public safety, and health care.

After leaving Congress, Cazayoux continued his career in public service when he was nominated by President Barack Obama to serve as the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. His nomination was supported by U.S. Senator Mary Landrieu, and he was confirmed unanimously by the Senate in June 2010. Cazayoux held this position until 2013, after which he transitioned back into private practice, establishing the Cazayoux Ewing law offices in Baton Rouge and New Roads.

Cazayoux's personal life includes his marriage to Cherie Chavanne in 1986, and they have three children together. He has also been involved in community service, having served as president of the New Roads branch of the Lions Club from 2002 to 2003. His familial connections include a distant relationship with the late Lindy Boggs, a former U.S. Representative and Ambassador, highlighting his ties to Louisiana's political history.

Overall, Donald J. Cazayoux Jr.'s career reflects a blend of legal expertise and political service, characterized by a commitment to his constituents and a focus on issues pertinent to Louisiana's 6th congressional district.