Speedy Long

Speedy Oteria Long was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for Louisiana's 8th congressional district from January 3, 1965, until January 3, 1973. A member of the prominent Long political family, he was known for his outspoken views and regional focus. Long's political career spanned several decades, during which he held various positions, including state senator and district attorney, before returning to the practice of law after his congressional tenure.

Early life and career

Speedy Oteria Long was born on June 16, 1928, in Tullos, Louisiana, located in La Salle Parish. His nickname "Speedy" was derived from his premature birth. Long's early education took place in public schools across La Salle and Winn Parishes, culminating in his graduation from Winnfield High School in 1945. Following high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy, serving from April 1946 until February 1948.

After his military service, Long pursued higher education at Northeast Junior College in Monroe, Louisiana, where he graduated in 1950. He continued his studies at Northwestern State College in Natchitoches, Louisiana, earning his degree in 1951. Long was later recalled to active duty in the Navy from September 1951 to December 1952. Upon completing his service, he attended Louisiana State University Law School in Baton Rouge, graduating in February 1959. He was admitted to the Louisiana bar later that same year and began practicing law in Jena, Louisiana.

Long's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the Louisiana State Senate, where he served from May 1956 until May 1964. His tenure in the state legislature provided him with valuable experience and a platform for his subsequent political ambitions. In 1964, he sought the Democratic nomination for the U.S. House of Representatives, aiming to represent Louisiana's 8th congressional district. His primary opponent was his cousin, Gillis Long, who was the incumbent at the time.

The primary contest between the two Longs was marked by their differing approaches to segregation, with Speedy Long being more outspoken in his views. He campaigned vigorously against Gillis Long, utilizing the slogan "Vote Against the Man Who Voted Against the South," which resonated with certain segments of the electorate. Ultimately, Speedy Long won the primary election and subsequently secured victory in the general election, despite a limited campaign strategy that included only a brief television appearance. His election made him the sixth member of the Long family to serve in the United States Congress.

House tenure

Speedy Long's congressional career began on January 3, 1965, and he served four consecutive terms in the House of Representatives until January 3, 1973. During his time in office, he was part of a significant political era that included major legislative developments, particularly in civil rights and social issues. Long's tenure coincided with a period of considerable change in American society, and he was involved in various discussions and debates that shaped the legislative landscape.

In 1972, Long made an attempt to transition from Congress to the executive branch of Louisiana's state government by running for Governor. However, his campaign was unsuccessful, as he finished eighth in the Democratic primary, garnering only a small percentage of the vote. Following this setback, he opted not to seek re-election to the House of Representatives. Instead, he returned to the political arena by running for the position of District Attorney for the 28th Judicial District, which encompasses Caldwell and LaSalle parishes. Long was successful in this endeavor and was re-elected unopposed in 1978.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the House, Speedy Long was known for his focus on issues pertinent to his constituents and the broader Southern demographic. His legislative priorities reflected the interests and concerns of the people in Louisiana's 8th congressional district, which included various social and economic issues. While specific details regarding the bills he sponsored or supported are not provided, it is evident that his political stance was influenced by the prevailing attitudes of the time, particularly regarding civil rights and regional interests.

Long's committee assignments during his congressional tenure would have played a significant role in shaping his legislative agenda and influence within the House. However, specific details about the committees on which he served are not available. It is reasonable to infer that, given the era in which he served, he may have been involved in committees that dealt with issues such as agriculture, education, and social welfare, which were critical to his constituents.

After leaving Congress, Long continued his public service career, which included a return to law and various political endeavors. His later attempts to secure higher office, including a run for Governor in 1987, were not successful, but he remained active in his community and the legal field. In 1994, he was appointed as a District Judge in the 28th Judicial District, serving until a successor was elected later that year. Despite facing challenges in his political career, Long's contributions to Louisiana's political landscape were recognized when he was inducted into the Louisiana Political Hall of Fame in 1996.

Speedy Long passed away on October 5, 2006, in Jena, Louisiana, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with the Long family's historical significance in Louisiana politics. His life and career reflect the complexities of American political history during a transformative period in the mid-20th century.