The race for Louisiana House District 89 is filling up fast with real estate broker Vince Liuzza entering the race. The seat is currently held by State Rep. Reid Falconer (R-Covington).

Here’s the press release:

Real estate broker Vince Liuzza has announced his candidacy for Louisiana State House of Representatives for District 89.

Liuzza, 49, is the owner of Liuzza Realty Group, a residential and commercial real estate brokerage based in Mandeville. He has been a realtor and business owner in the district since 2004, and has lived in the district since 2000.

“I grew up in a family of restaurateurs and entrepreneurs, and I learned at a young age the importance of hard work and giving back to the community,” Liuzza said. “I am at a point in my life and career when I can offer myself for public service in an elected office, and can bring my diversity of experience to this position.”

The seat is currently held by Rep. Reid Falconer, who is not seeking re-election, but is running for state Senate.

“I began working in my family’s restaurants at age 13, washing dishes,” Liuzza said. “I eventually became a manager of one of our locations. All of these jobs provided valuable experiences about work, management, budgeting, and treating people with respect. Since starting my real estate career at age 35, I have worked hard to give my clients the service they need and expect – the same things I will do as a state representative.

“I have received tremendous support and encouragement from a cross-section of the community – the place I have called home for nearly 20 years – and I am excited about launching my campaign,” Liuzza said.

Liuzza and his partner of 18 years, Frank Stuart, a nurse anesthetist at St. Tammany Parish Hospital, live in Mandeville. Liuzza is a longtime Republican, and a member of St. Timothy on the Northshore United Methodist Church.

Liuzza joins a crowded field that includes attorney and ex-diplomat Richard Nelson, Mandeville City Councilman David Ellis, and former Marine and Tea Party activist Pat Phillips. All four are Republicans.

Reid Falconer is not running for reelection. Instead, he is seeking the state Senate seat currently held by State Sen. Jack Donahue (R-Covington).