A noticeably aged Edwin Edwards got a little more freedom last week as he reported to a halfway house in Baton Rouge. According to reports, he will not stay there, but he will have to check in a couple times per week and will be called several other times during the week.

No matter how many times reports are done on one of Louisiana’s most colorful governors, some television station will find people on the street to say they would again vote for the four-term former executive.

That sentiment surely exists, but to the extent he would garner enough support for a serious gubernatorial run is laughable.

At 83, it is unlikely that the once dominant political figure would venture into politics, although there are likely some politicos who would pay him for consulting work. Would he take the job, though? According to federal rules, prisoners being released are required to get a job, but an Associated Press report stated that requirement could be waived.

So what kind of job could the former governor get? Well, a Walmart greeter probably would be out of the question. The entrances likely would be jammed with gawkers and curious people who sought to get their picture taken with Edwards. Political consultant? Maybe, but wasn’t it politics that got him in trouble? And would someone running for office want to admit that he or she is being advised by a convict?

On a serious note, at 83 years old, Edwin Edwards has served the time required, minus a few months to adjust back to the world. No matter what his naysayers think, he is a father and grandfather and probably would do just fine being a granddad.

Edwards has missed out of much family life over the decades in office and the past eight years in jail — all by his own hand. Now should be the time for him to ride off into the sunset and be with family.

JEFF ZERINGUE

MANAGING EDITOR