Louisiana House Democratic chairman endorses Luke Mixon in US Senate race

Louisiana House of Representatives Democratic Caucus Chair Sam Jenkins of Shreveport has endorsed Luke Mixon in his bid to upset incumbent Republican John Kennedy in the U.S. Senate race and Democratic Congressman Troy Carter of New Orleans in his reelection bid.

“There is a lot at stake for women’s rights, voting rights and affordable healthcare," Jenkins said. "I believeTroy and Luke are effective advocates on these and many other issues."

Jenkins chose Mixon over Gary Chambers Jr., the other leading Democrat in the Senate race.

Carter is considered a heavy favorite to hold his 2nd Congressional District seat against Republican candidate "Dan" Lux. Carter is the only Democrat representing Louisiana in Congress.

Mixon, a retired Navy fighter pilot who lives in Baton Rouge, is considered the more moderate choice among Democrats in the vein of Democratic Gov. John Bel Edwards, who has also endorsed Mixon.

Chambers, a community activist, is a progressive who has clashed with the Louisiana Democratic Party brass, especially in its decision to issue a joint endorsement that also includes non-profit director Syrita Steib rather than take the recommendation of its executive committee to go with Chambers alone.

Both Mixon and Chambers have reported raising more than $1 million in their most recent campaign finance reports.

Kennedy, meanwhile, last reported $15.8 million in his campaign war chest and went up on TV during the past week with the first statewide TV ad.

The election is Nov. 8.

More:Louisiana Democratic Senate candidate claims racism drove state party endorsement

The deadline to register to vote in person, by mail or at the Office of Motor Vehicles Office is Oct. 11 and the deadline to register to vote through the secretary of state's GeauxVote Online Registration System is Oct. 18.

Early voting is Oct. 25-Nov. 1 (excluding Sunday, Oct. 30) from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

More:Can anyone topple Louisiana Senator John Kennedy? Incumbent hopes to raise $40 million

Greg Hilburn covers state politics for the USA TODAY Network of Louisiana. Follow him on Twitter @GregHilburn1 

This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Luke Mixon gets House Democratic chair endorsement in upset bid of Kennedy