Kennon was born near Minden, Louisiana. He graduated from Minden High School in 1919 and then went to Louisiana State University. While at LSU, Kennon played football and tennis.[1] He completed his undergrad there in 1923 and his law degree there in 1925.[2]
Career
In 1925, Kennon was elected mayor of Minden, Louisiana, at the age of 23. He served in that position until 1928. In 1930, he became district attorney for Bossier Parish. He served as a district attorney until 1940. He also served as district attorney in Webster Parish. Apparently he was attorney for both parishes at the same time.[3]
Kennon was elected to the 2nd circuit court of appeals in 1940. However, he instead of serving joined the United States military and did not take up active service as a judge until after World War II.[4]
While governor, Kennon reestablished the state civil service in Louisiana, which had been abolished by his predecessor Earl Long. He also advocated constitutional amendments to limit the power of the governor's office. He also worked to create home rule for New Orleans and end state government interference in local issues there.[5] Other things Kennon did while governor were ensuring that every precinct had a voting machine while working to suppress illegal slot machines and gambling in the state.[6] During Kennon's governorship, he additionally served as chairman of the National Governors Association from 1954 to 1955, and as chairman of the Council of State Governments in 1955.[7]
