1987 Louisiana gubernatorial election

The 1987 Louisiana gubernatorial election was held to elect the governor of Louisiana. Three-term incumbent Democratic governor Edwin Edwards lost re-election to a fourth term, defeated by Democratic congressman Buddy Roemer.

Edwin Edwards defeated Governor Dave Treen in the 1983 election. Edwards was prosecuted as governor by U.S. District Attorney John Volz for selling hospital certificates, but the first trial results in a hung jury before Edwards was acquitted.

Under Louisiana's jungle primary system, all candidates appear on the same ballot, regardless of party, and voters may vote for any candidate, regardless of their party affiliation. On October 24, 1987, Roemer and Edwards took the two highest popular vote counts. As neither took over 50% a runoff was scheduled, but Edwards withdrew, causing the runoff's cancellation.

The Times-Picayune/The Times-Picayune and other newspapers endorsed Roemer four weeks prior to the primary. He was initially fifth in polling behind Edwards and Livingston, but rose to placing first in the primary. Edwards withdrew from the election prior to the runoff.

Livingston only placed first in three parishes which were all within his congressional district. Republican areas, such as Caddo Parish, instead supported Roemer.

First voting round, October 24

Runoff did not occur due to Edwards withdrawing

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State of Louisiana. Primary and General Election Returns, 1987.