ANALYSIS/OPINION:

ANALYSIS/OPINION:

Embattled Louisiana Sen. Mary Landrieu has picked out her excuse if she loses her seat to her Republican challenger: “Conservative” voters in her state don’t much care for women and African-Americans.

When asked by NBC’s Chuck Todd why President Obama struggles in her state, Ms. Landrieu first said his energy policies run counter to Louisiana’s “pro-production” mindset, citing an angry response to Mr. Obama’s moratorium on drilling in the Gulf of Mexico.

After that, the self-described “centrist” suggested racism was at play.

“I’ll be very honest with you. The South has not always been the friendliest place for African-Americans. It’s been a difficult time for the president to present himself in a very positive light as a leader.”

After that attack on her constituents, the incumbent also suggested that sexism might be at play in her faltering poll numbers, despite the fact that she’s won three consecutive terms in the Senate.

“It’s not always been a good place for women to present ourselves. It’s more of a conservative place,” Ms. Landrieu said.

The comments earned quick condemnation from her top Republican challenger, Rep. Bill Cassidy, who told Fox News’ Megyn Kelly, “We’re going through the political process to have a change — how our Constitution prescribes how you do it — and we’re called racist.”

Rob Maness, another Republican seeking her seat, also condemned Ms. Landrieu’s comments and called for an apology in a statement.

“Maybe if Sen. Landrieu actually lived in Louisiana, she would know that the reason why she and President Obama are so unpopular is because of the policies they support and the big-government agenda they have imposed on Louisiana’s working families,” Mr. Maness said, referencing Ms. Landrieu’s lack of homeownership in the state.

Insulting constituents days ahead of an election is an interesting move, but considering her struggling poll numbers, she’s apparently willing to try anything.

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