Technically speaking, Mary Landrieu didn’t break the unwritten rule for politicians to not be photographed with a drink in their hands, but manning the nozzle for a keg stand is pretty close.
While taking part in the tailgating festivities before Louisiana State’s game against Mississippi State on Saturday, the Democratic senator succumbed to peer pressure and got in on a keg stand. According to Mother Jones’s account of the events, Landrieu was initially hesitant as the crowd chanted “Mary! Mary! Mary!”; she eventually lent a hand as a fan’s legs were held up while he guzzled down some beer.
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The campaign later confirmed the man was of legal age to imbibe.
Despite the pre-game hoopla, it wasn’t all good for Tigers fans. Let it be known to Louisiana voters: The LSU Tigers are 0–1 in games where Landrieu has taken part in a keg stand (or at least was photographed doing so). Mississippi State went on to upset the then-No. 8 ranked team from Baton Rogue 34–29.
But rather than credit Landrieu with just wanting to have a grand old time with her keg-stand foray, some cynics see the photo op as the latest calculated effort by the vulnerable incumbent to appeal to youngsters, following recent news that her Louisiana residence is her parents’ home in New Orleans:
Assisting in keg stands helps Mary Landrieu connect with young college voters. Also, living in her parent's basement.
— David Burge (@iowahawkblog) September 21, 2014