The late Clyde Holloway of Forest Hill said shortly after being elected to his first term in the U.S. House that he spent more time passing the bucket than passing laws.

Raising money for the next campaign, whenever it is, whatever office is the objective, is second-nature to the modern politician.

Unopposed legislators whose districts include parts of Rapides have a step up on their next race, whenever it might occur.

It needs to be noted that the funds on hand were for the most part received before candidate qualifying in August. Until then there were no unopposed candidates.

Did the task of raising money dissuade potential opponents? Perhaps. Did absence of opposition indicate general satisfaction by the electorate?

Perhaps.

As of reports of September 4 here’s the unopposed accounting:

Sen. Jay Luneau, District 29, $264,000 on hand, $216,000 raised this calendar year;

Sen. Mike Reese, District 39, $517,000 on hand, $128,000 raised this year;

Sen. Glen Womack, District 32, $67,000 on hand, $76,000 raised this year;

Sen. Jay Morris, District 35, $24,000 on hand, $27,000 raised this year;

Rep. Mike Johnson, District 27, $322,000 on hand, $41,000 raised this year;

Rep. Rhonda Butler, District 38, $58,100 on hand, $81,300 raised this year.