By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Conrad Cable, a “dirt row farmer” from Union Parish, has announced his candidacy to challenge Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson in Louisiana’s 4th District in the 2026 election. Cable, a Democrat, emphasizes his working-class background and aims to represent those struggling financially. He plans to compete in the Democratic primary in April, while Johnson will run in the Republican primary. Cable’s campaign centers on issues like safety net programs, the insurance crisis, and rural internet access, vowing to prioritize the needs of the community over corporate interests.
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Louisiana Democratic ‘dirt row farmer’ targets Speaker Mike Johnson in 2026 election
Conrad Cable, a 33-year-old vegetable farmer from Union Parish, Louisiana, is stepping up to challenge Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson in the 2026 election. He’s running in the 4th District, a stronghold for Republicans, and the reaction is mixed. Some are excited about the prospect of a fresh face and a genuine, hardworking individual taking on the established order. There’s a feeling that the current political landscape is stale, and the opportunity to elect someone different could inject new energy into the process.
Conrad Cable frames his campaign as a battle of the “bottom versus the top,” which seems to resonate with many who feel that working people are struggling while those at the top accumulate more wealth and power. He wants to be the voice of those working people who are working harder than ever and getting back less and less. This resonates with the frustrations of many who feel overlooked and under-represented by current political leaders.
The enthusiasm is clear, with supporters highlighting the need for generational change, advocating for policies that would benefit the average person. They express a desire for politicians who understand the realities of everyday life, including the challenges of healthcare, education, and the cost of living. There’s a growing sense that the younger generations need to take control and shape the future. This push for change is about more than just winning an election; it’s about fighting for a different vision of the country.
It’s understood by many that it would be a huge victory if Cable were to win, and many think that Johnson would claim the election was stolen. The fact that Johnson has run unopposed in the past shows a lack of opposition, and there are doubts about the chances of winning in a deep red district. However, the very act of running is seen as a positive step. It’s about providing a choice and demonstrating that there are alternative voices.
A common thread is the frustration with the current state of affairs, particularly the policies and priorities of the Republican Party. Many people feel that Republicans do not care about their constituents and are out of touch with the needs of ordinary people. They express a strong dislike for the current leadership, viewing them as part of the problem and a threat to the US Constitution. The people expressing this anger wish to see a drastic turn-around in current policies and beliefs.
Even though the district is heavily Republican, there’s a feeling that people are more receptive to this change than they used to be. The sentiment is that if the Democratic party doesn’t put up a candidate, they’re just surrendering and further proving the point that they’re feckless and weak. The main issues here are to get regular people into politics and have them represent their own.
Some people express concerns about the viability of Cable’s campaign, acknowledging the uphill battle he faces in a heavily Republican district. But they also recognize that simply having a candidate on the ballot is a step in the right direction. It encourages voters and gives them a choice. It shows the party cares enough to stand and fight.
Cable’s background as a farmer is seen as an asset, giving him a connection to the land and the people. His experience growing up in the area and being involved in 4-H is another benefit. While he may not be a seasoned politician, his supporters believe he’s genuine and dedicated to the people of Louisiana, caring about the citizens and wanting their lives to be better.