New Orleans -   According to the Times Picayune and campaign finance reports filed with the state Ethics Commission, former Councilman Jay Batt recently received $500 from Entergy consultant William Broadhurst.  Batt is trying to reclaim the Council District A seat he lost four years ago, primarily due to voters' frustration with his close ties to the utility giant.

"I guess we shouldn't be surprised Entergy is once again loading Jay Batt's cart since he spent his time on the Council doing their bidding at every opportunity," said Susan Guidry, Democratic candidate for District A.  "Instead of learning his lesson in the last election, Jay Batt is up to his same old tricks.  He's taking another swing at the council, but after being sent to the dugout for four years, he's still the same 'ol Jay Batt."

As a Member of the City Council, Jay Batt sided with Entergy over and over while electric bills kept going up for Orleans Parish consumers.  Batt took thousands in campaign contributions from Entergy and their lobbyists and used their private jet.

"The City Council wisely passed a resolution that they would volunteer to refuse donations from Entergy, or their advisors and consultants.  The same standard should apply to candidates for Council which is why I will not accept any money for my campaign from Entergy.  Jay Batt should adhere to the same standard, return the tainted money and wean himself from Entergy's money trough," continued Guidry.