Rep. Cao and Dem challenger avoid run-in at Katrina ceremony

NEW ORLEANS — Cedric Richmond, the freshly crowned Democratic House nominee, almost bumped into his Republican opponent, Rep. Anh "Joseph" Cao (R-La.), during a Hurricane Katrina remembrance ceremony Sunday.

Richmond was taking a break from visiting morning church services to stop at the ceremony, which was marking the time the Lower Ninth Ward floodwall broke in 2005. After saying hello to Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), Richmond made his way with the rest of the crowd, which included a brass band playing "Celebration," up the Claiborne Avenue Bridge. In the center of the bridge, Cao and Waters helped drop a commemorative wreath into the water below. 

Richmond, who won the 2nd district Democratic primary Saturday, was congratulated on his victory by several marchers as he walked. Cao also got some attention. "You're doing a great job," one woman told him. 

See photos of the event after the jump.

Louisiana House candidate Cedric Richmond (D) greets Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) at a remembrance ceremony in the Lower Ninth Ward Aug. 29. "Glad we didn't miss this," Richmond said.

The march sets out toward the Claiborne Avenue Bridge.

Rep. Anh "Joseph" Cao (R-La.) turns to leave after dropping a commemorative wreath into the canal.