Quicker than you can say jambalaya, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie and their crew dashed in—and out—of the Big Easy.
After popping into New Orleans a couple of days ago, the family has already touched down again in France, apparently catching a red-eye flight Tuesday evening. But while speedy, friends of the dynamic duo say the couple had a very specific purpose for their N'Awlins visit.
"First, Brad wanted to check on the progress of the houses being built in the Ninth Ward," says a New Orleans activist, referring to the low-income neighborhood devastated by Katrina and being rebuilt with the help of Brad's charity, Make It Right. About 90 houses are under construction, but Brad hopes to increase the number to 150 total.
But that's not all…
Apparently, the couple wanted to ripple the political waters with their visit, too.
"With just a handful of weeks before the presidential election, they wanted to subtly remind everyone that New Orleans is still in recovery mode," says another friend and Louisiana local. "Their visit right now was not an accident. They knew by popping into town, with pictures of Brad walking through the damaged neighborhoods, New Orleans would again be in the headlines. They are very savvy that way."
Brad and Angie aren't saying outright who to vote for. "They're just saying, you know, think about which party might really do this region the most good before you cast your ballot," the friend adds.