Governor Jeff Landry, legislators, lobbyists and business executives are in the nation’s capitol for Washington Mardi Gras festivities. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The U.S. Senate Banking Committee Heard testimony in Washington this morning about the unaffordability of flood insurance. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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Today is the official opening of Washington Mardi Gras. It’s an annual party at the nation’s capital, but there’s also plenty of business taking place. Lapolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says the 75th celebration has more meaning with a new state government and all the clout Louisiana’s Congressional delegation holds

Cut 3 (10) “….network” 

Alford says Louisiana businesses, lobbyists and groups budget for this event every year because it’s a great place to network…

Cut 4 (12) “..just that”

This year’s theme…Louisiana: the most interesting state in America. Alford says Louisiana is more interesting politically this year because of Mike Johnson of Bossier Parish’s sudden rise to House Speaker and Louisiana has a new governor and several new legislators…

Cut 5 (12) “…of state government.” 

Former Saints quarterback Drew Brees is serving as the king for the social events including Saturday night’s ball.

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The U.S. Senate Banking Committee Heard testimony in Washington this morning about the unaffordability of flood insurance. Louisiana Senator John Kennedy voiced his frustration with the Risk Rating 2.0 formula that decides premiums and FEMA’s lack of transparency.

Cut 6 (14) “…their budget.” 

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy is pushing legislation to cap annual premium increases at nine-percent.

When asked what should be prioritized in the legislation, President of Greater New Orleans Inc., Michael Hecht says the first is by making it affordable.

Cut 7 (10) “…paying for it.” 

And the third priority Hecht told lawmakers was funding for mitigation to reduce flood risks.

Kennedy says he was told one-fifth of policyholders would see their premiums go down as a result of the new algorithm with Risk Rating 2.0. The Republican then quoted increases of more than 300-percent in Terrebonne Parish and over 500-percent in Plaquemines Parish.

Cut 8 (12) “…these years.” 

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that more than 900,000 policyholders will drop out of the program over the next decade due to premium hikes.

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The Bayou State has seen significant rainfall since Tuesday, and more rainfall is expected into Saturday. LSU Climatologist Barry Keim says some of the highest rainfall totals are in southeast Louisiana…

Cut 9 (13) “…Bogalusa”

A flood watch is in effect for most of southeast Louisiana until 6 PM.

Keim says rain chances are high again tomorrow. He says parishes along the coast could see locally heavy rainfall…

Cut 10 (10) “…five inches.”

Louisiana is in a swing season period with a typical winter El Nino climate pattern that creates storm formation in the Gulf of Mexico and brings heavy rainfall.

Keim says rainfall totals for the next 24 to 48 hours range from one to five inches. He says the additional rain should help saturate the soil.

Cut 11 (06) “…drought issues.”

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Former LSU football star Kayshon Boutte has been arrested after he allegedly created a fraudulent sports betting account on FanDuel Sportsbook when he was 20-years-old so that he can bet on sporting events. East Baton Rouge District Attorney Hillar Moore says State Police has been investigating Boutte since April 2022…

Cut 12 (11)  “..Louisiana State Police”  

State Police says it investigated Boutte’s sports gambling activities from April 2022 to May of 2023. Investigators say Boutte placed more than 89-hundred wagers during that time and at least 17 were on NCAA football games. Boutte was on the LSU football team in 2022 and Moore says any bets he made as a player do not rise to criminal activity…

Cut 13 (11) “..criminal equation” 

State Police says Boutte’s alias account shows he at least six of his wagers were on LSU football, including the 2022 opener against Florida State. But Moore says the evidence shows he was not throwing games…

Cut  14 (06) “…do well”

Boutte, who is from New Iberia, has been charged with computer fraud and gaming prohibited and placing sports bets under the age of 21. He was a rookie with the New England Patriots during the 2023 football season and appeared in five games and caught two passes.

After his congressional district was completely redrawn to favor electing a Democrat, Republican Garret Graves says he’s still running for office. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Several inches of rain has fallen across most of Louisiana today and more rain is on the way. LRN chief meteorologist Bill Jacquemin reports this weather system has already delivered when it comes to producing flooding rains…

Cut 2 (29)  “…I’m Bill Jacquemin” 

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Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves, whose district was completely redrawn in the newly passed congressional map is criticizing the Republican-controlled state legislature and Governor Landry for their support of the map.  He says it could ultimately hurt the GOP’s status in the US House.

Cut 3 (09) “…boneheaded move.”

Graves, a Republican, says the legislature didn’t have to redraw the map to include a second Majority-Black district, with the potential to elect another Democrat. While he says Judge Shelly Dick made it clear she didn’t like the map passed in 2022, it was still making its way through the courts.

Cut 4 (07) “…existing map.”

Graves says the new map also jeopardizes key committee appointments in DC for Louisiana, like the Chair of Transportation and Infrastructure.  It’s a vital appointment for much-needed projects like the new Calcasieu River and Mississippi River Bridges. And more…

Cut 5 (12) “…and fix.” 

Despite frustration over his district being redrawn Graves says he plans to run for his sixth term in Congress in the fall.

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State Police reminds drivers of large commercial trucks and 18-wheelers that driving through the I-20 construction zone in Bossier City is off limits. DOTD Spokesperson Erin Buchanan says accidents involving large trucks have increased on that stretch of highway that is down to one lane.

Cut 6 (12) “…begin with.” 

Last month a ban went into effect to keep large trucks from driving through the construction zone.

Buchanan says law enforcement have issued more than 200 warnings and citations. She says there are plenty of signs in the area…

Cut 7 (13) “…and Bossier.” 

Concrete barriers were added as a safety precaution to prevent drivers from leaving the travel lane and entering the area where lanes are actively being removed and reconstructed.

As work continues, Buchanan says drivers of oversize loads should remain vigilant while driving through Bossier between Hamilton Road and Industrial Drive. She encourages truck drivers to use the I-220 detour to help keep everyone safe.

Cut 8 (09) “…for everyone.” 

Travelers can check 511la dot org or download the Louisiana 511 app to monitor road condition.

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We’ve seen flooding rains for certain portions of our state as a half a foot of rain has fallen in some areas. National Weather Service Lake Charles meteorologist Doug Cramer says the Natchitoches area go soaked this morning…

Cut 9 (09) “…to the north”

Cramer says they’ve received reports of flooding of homes and businesses in Avoyelles Parish. Several highways across south and central Louisiana are under water…

Cut 10 (10) “…flood waters”

Cramer says the National Weather Service is forecasting additional rainfall for the rest of the day and into tonight…

Cut 11 (12) “…of flooding.”

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Four people were shot during a drive-by shooting in Lafayette this morning. Lafayette Police Sergeant Robin Green says three men were standing outside of a home on Sunset Drive when shots were fired from a passing vehicle that stopped in front of the home

Cut 12 (12)  “..at the vehicle”  

Green says two of the victims are in critical condition and two are in stable condition. She says when officers arrived they found a man on the ground….

Cut 13 (10) “…gunfire” 

Green says they are looking for the person that was standing outside of the home and fired shots at the vehicle.

Mary Bird Perkins is expanding into Central and North Louisiana in a partnership with MD Clinics. Colleen Crain has more…

Cut 1 (34) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Daybreak Health, the leading provider of school based mental health services, has partnered with Livingston Parish Schools to give students free mental health classes. Teiko Foxx explains…

Cut 2 (34)  “…I’m Teiko Foxx.”

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Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says he’s planning to run for congress in the newly drawn map that creates a majority-Black 6^th congressional district. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center announces their expansion into Central and North Louisiana in a partnership with MD Clinics which serves a large diverse population in cities and rural communities. Mary Bird Perkins Chief Operating Officer, Jodi Conachen (Con uh kin) says they found a like- minded partner to bring quality cancer care close to home in the region…

Cut 4 (08) “…across the state.”

In Baton Rouge, Mary Bird Perkins recently launched First Phase Cancer Research Trials. Conachen says until recently you had to leave the state to find that level of research and availability of clinical trial and they plan to bring the trial to the expanded clinics….

Cut 5 (11) “…of research.” 

Conachen expects the expansion across Louisiana’s diverse culture and population to attract more cancer research and services to the area…

Cut 6 (12) “…to our area.”

Beginning April 2024 MD Clinics will become Mary Bird Perkins locations.

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New data released by the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics shows Louisiana added 33-hundred non-farm jobs from November to December. Louisiana Workforce Commission Chief Economist Emily DiPalma says the number of non-farm jobs was just under two-million….

Cut 7 (10) “…over the year gain.”

Dipalma says the state’s unemployment rate for December was 3.7 percent…

Cut 8 (09) “…overall.” 

Over the year, private education and health services gained 11-thousand jobs, 82-hundred construction jobs were added and the government added 71-hundred jobs.

Dipalma says New Orleans added 800 jobs from November to December, while the Shreveport metro area added 700. She thought it was significant that Shreveport added that many jobs…

Cut 9 (09)  “…700.”

Baton Rouge added 400 jobs from November to December, Monroe added 300, while Alexandria lost 300.

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The Livingston Parish School system is offering its high school students struggling with anxiety, depression or any mental illness 12 weeks of free teletherapy through a program called Daybreak. Federal Program Coordinator at Livingston Schools, Charlene Lilly, says they are the first school district in the state to offer free mental health support for students.

Cut 10 (12) “…perfect storm.”

Students can enroll by scanning a QR code or reaching out to their school counselors. Parental consent is required before Daybreak can connect students with a licensed counselor.

Lilly says the program gives the students what they need at their leisure at no cost.

Cut 11 (11) “…on Saturday.” 

Lilly says 62 percent of students in Louisiana who had mental depression didn’t receive any care over the last two years. She believes Daybreak will have a positive impact on the students and help to fill a gap.

Cut 12 (12) “…all digital.” 

Lilly says instead of being placed on a waiting list for six months to see a private doctor, through the Daybreak program, students will begin their first session in one to two weeks.

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Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields says he will run for the newly created 6^th congressional seat currently held by Congressman Garret Graves. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says he’s not surprised considering the new map perfectly caters to the Black Democrat.

Cut 13 (08) “…wouldn’t he run?”

And it wouldn’t be Fields first congressional campaign. From 1993 to 1997 Fields represented the state’s then 4^th district which was then redrawn after the courts ruled it was gerrymandered. Pinsonat says with the map redrawn again, Fields’ congressional career could come full circle.

Cut 14 (09) “…the apple.” 

District 6 now spans from East Baton Rouge Parish north to Caddo Parish and Pinsonat says it’s around 54 percent majority-Black. He says Fields running for the seat is a no-brainer.

Cut 15 (06) …strongest candidate.“

Fields released a statement on Tuesday that he will formally announce his candidacy in the next few weeks.

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LSU is expected to announce the promotion of Joe Sloan and Cortez Hankton as co-offensive coordinators for the 2024 season. Both have been assistants at LSU since Brian Kelly arrived. Hankton has coached the receivers and has been the passing game coordinator, while Sloan has been the quarterbacks coach and reports say Sloan will be the play caller. Tiger Rag Editor Todd Horne the move makes sense…

Cut 16 (17) “…in public’s eyes.” 

Sloan has previous play-calling experience at Louisiana Tech. He’ll have big shoes to fill as former offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock helped guide one of the most explosive offenses in LSU football history. Horne believes Sloan is up to the challenge…

Cut 17 (10) “…himself with.” 

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ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper has the Washington Commanders with the second over pick taking Jayden Daniels in the 2024 NFL draft. Daniels says he’s not paying attention to the mock drafts…

Cut 18 (20)  “…get better.” 

Some football analysts compare Daniels’ quarterback style to Ravens QB Lamar Jackson, who has won one MVP and has Baltimore in this Sunday’s AFC Championship game. Daniels says he’s just trying to be me…

Cut 19 (16) “…came before me.” 

Daniels was a dynamic quarterback last season. He believes his speed will be a big asset…

Cut 20 (15) “…over to the NFL.”

The congressional map with a second majority-Black district is getting pushback and some Republicans plan to challenge it in court.  Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 1 (32)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Most of the state north of Interstate 10 is under a flood watch, with the heaviest rains expected to come tomorrow. LRN Meteorologist Bill Jacquemin has the latest…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Bill Jacquemin” 

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Governor Jeff Landry has signed his first bills into law. They come from last week’s special session and they include a new Congressional district map and a measure that will bring party primaries to federal elections in 2026. Lapolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says the governor wanted closed party primaries for nearly all elections, but didn’t push the issue…

Cut 3 (10) “…he’s known for.”

The new Congressional District map drastically changes the 6th district currently represented by Republican Garret Graves. If Graves runs for re-election in the 6th district, he’s expected to face strong opposition from a Democrat, possibly state senator Cleo Fields of Baton Rouge. Alford says if Graves’ is not re-elected, his days in politics are not over…

Cut 4 (13) “..somewhere.”

Up next for Governor Landry and the state legislature is a special session addressing crime. It’s expected to begin a month from now. Alford says the governor has not laid out his exact plans for the special session, but lawmakers are already proposing ideas…

Cut 5 (15) “..mental health issues.” 

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The congressional map with a second majority-Black district passed in the special session is getting pushback from some Republicans. St. Bernard Parish Representative Mike Bayham says the map that stretches the 6^th congressional district from parts of East Baton Rouge Parish to parts of Caddo Parish resembles one the courts struck down in the 90s.

Cut 6 (12) “…demographics” 

Bayham is among a group that plans to challenge the map in court. He says this map also separates a neighborhood in his own legislative district of St. Bernard Parish.

Cut 7 (11) “…absurb.” 

He says the other side of the street is in the 2^nd Congressional District.

Bayham says the map is ducking in and out of neighborhoods in St. Bernard Parish and it’s more like an abstract painting versus a map that represents a community of interest.

Cut 8 (10) “…Federal map.” 

This is also the map favored and signed by Governor Jeff Landry.

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Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy, who was the lone Republican in the state’s congressional district who voted in favor of The Biden Administration’s Infrastructure bill says the state will benefit immensely from investments in broadband. For example, in northwest Louisiana…

Cut 9 (05) “…investment there.” 

And part of that investment Cassidy says is teaching and preparing students as young as elementary school for a career in computer science.

Infrastructure funds will also go towards an I-20 corridor Amtrak line connecting Atlanta and Dallas. Cassidy says it also includes the cities of Shreveport, Ruston, and Monroe.

Cut 10 (11) “…to live.”

Cassidy says his congressional-directed spending is also benefiting Barksdale Airforce Base and the vision for northwest Louisiana to become a cyber hub. Another project he mentions is one to help the Department of Defense better train pilots in conducting rescue missions.

Cut 11 (08) “…even more.”

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LSU Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Jayden Daniels was named today as the winner of the 2023 Manning Award, which goes to the top quarterback in the nation. Daniels led the nation with nearly five-thousand yards of total offense

Cut 12 (12)  “…being here”  

This is the 20th year of the Manning award and Daniels is the third LSU honoree. Joe Burrow and Jamarcus Russell are the other two winners from LSU. Saints legend Archie Manning says Daniels 2023 campaign will go down as one of the greatest ever…

Cut 13 (10) “…football team” 

You might be tempted to prune foliage that was damaged during last week’s freeze, but experts encourage you to resist the urge. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Jeff Landry is expected to sign the new Congressional district map approved by lawmakers. Jeff Palermo reports the new map makes it harder for Republican Garret Graves to get re-elected this year…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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After last week’s deep freeze, chances are your lawn isn’t as attractive as it used to be, and you might be tempted to prune away unsightly foliage. LSU Ag Center Horticulturist Heather Kirk-Ballard says not to because the damaged leaves will protect the plants from the next freeze.

Cut 3 (09) “…bounce back.”

Kirk-Ballard also discourages you from fertilizing because you don’t want to encourage new growth when we’ll most likely have another freeze. She says to hold off until late March, or early April to prune and fertilize your garden.

Cut 4 (10) “…that time.”

To further protect your plants, especially the tropical or tender ones that received damage, Kirk-Ballard says to keep them covered and to add mulch.

Cut 5 (08) “…be patient.” 

But if you’re unable to resist the urge and choose to go ahead and remove the dead foliage, she encourages you to then cover the plant and insulate it with mulch to further protect it.

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A wet week is coming up for the Bayou State. LRN meteorologist Bill Jacquemin says to expect heavy rainfall and the possibility of flooding through Thursday..

Cut 6 (07) “…higher amounts” 

Jacquemin says forecasts show average rainfall totals between four and eight inches through the week, with the possibility of  higher amounts. He says localized flooding for urban and poor drainage areas is possible and water levels for multiple river basins will rise…

Cut 7 (12) “…of Louisiana.” 

Jacquemin says the first round of heavy rainfall will arrive late tonight into Tuesday and flood watches and warnings are possible…

Cut 8 (09) “…do occur” 

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The political future for Baton Rouge Republican Garret Graves is cloudy after the Louisiana Legislature approved a new Congressional map that turns his district into a second Black-majority district. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Graves has served in Congress since 2015 and his re-election chances for this year have taken a major hit

Cut 9 (04) “…big disadvantage” 

Graves’ current district includes the Baton Rouge capitol region, down the Mississippi River, and into Thibodaux, Houma, and Morgan City.

The new sixth Congressional district will stretch from Baton Rouge through Alexandria and Natchitoches and into Shreveport.

A federal judge ordered the Louisiana Legislature to draw a new map after it was determined the one approved in 2022 underrepresented the Black vote by not having two majority-minority districts. Pinsonat expects a lawsuit contesting this latest map…

Cut 10 (05) “…the Constitution”

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson is not happy the Louisiana Legislature drew a new map. He believes they should have demanded a federal trial on the map approved in 2022. Pinsonat says the Congressional redistricting battle is far from over…

Cut 11 (11) “…one particular district”

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Jury selection is underway in the re-trial of Cardell Hayes. He fatally shot former Saints star Will Smith in 2016. Hayes says the shooting was in self-defense after an argument erupted following a car crash in the Garden District. Hayes was convicted of manslaughter, but it was tossed out due to a non-unanimous jury verdict. Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says typically the defense has an advantage in re-trials

Cut 12 (10)  “…and accuracies”  

10 of the 12 jury members who sat through Hayes’ first trial determined he was guilty of manslaughter. Ciolino says if the jury splits again, it’s a victory for the defense…

Cut 13 (12) “…plea” 

Hayes has been free since 2021. The judge expects the trial to last about a week.

State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley will continue in his role after BESE unanimously voted for his reappointment. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Governor Landry wanted to change Louisiana elections from jungle primaries to a closed-party primary system and the legislature passed a bill, but it wasn’t everything Landry proposed. Colleen Crain has more.

Cut 2 (31)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Governor Jeff Landry calls the results of the special session an exciting day for Louisiana. Jeanne Burns has more…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeanne Burns.”

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We’ve already heard the 2024 crawfish season could be one of the worst ever in terms of supply and prices due to a historic drought. And LSU Agent Crawfish Specialist Mark Shirley warns the outlook for next year isn’t promising either.

Cut 4 (06) “…next year.”

He says the fields that don’t have crawfish this year will have to be restocked and with limited availability, it creates issues for the 2025 crop.

Shirley says the only possible source for wild crawfish in May and June will be from the Atchafalaya Basin crop. And unfortunately, the current water level in the Basin is extremely low at one to two feet.

Cut 5 (06) “…the winter.” 

Any chance to increase the number of crawfish in the Atchafalaya Basin, Shirley says depends on snowmelt from the north flowing down the Mississippi River and…

Cut 6 (10) “…the Basin.”

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Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley has unanimously been reappointed to continue to serve in his position by the Louisiana Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Brumley says he’s anxious to continue working in the role he’s held for four years.

Cut 7 (11) “…to go.”

In his first four years, Brumley navigated the state’s school system through a global pandemic and multiple hurricanes. During that period the state’s overall ranking according to The Nation’s Report Card moved from 46^th to 42^nd and the state’s 4^th graders were ranked number one in the country for reading growth.

Cut 8 (12) “…to go.” 

With disruptions in the rearview mirror, Brumley says the department can now focus on getting back to the basics, reading, writing, arithmetic, and other priorities like…

Cut 9 (12)  “…kid’s education.”

Brumley says he’s looking forward to working with Governor Jeff Landry and new members of the legislature.

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In last week’s special session, the Louisiana Legislature passed a bill to change from jungle primary elections to closed party primaries but only for federal elections, and elections for State Supreme Court, Public Service Commission, and BESE. Public Affairs Research Council President Steve Procopio says the bill passed so quickly it left much room for confusion but at least it won’t be implemented until 2026…

Cut 10 (11) “…even more.”

Unaffiliated voters will be able to vote in the party primaries, but registered Independents, Libertarians, and other Third-party registered voters will not. Procopio says the changes will impact many Louisiana voters…

Cut 11 (10) “…state level.” 

The bill passed in less than a week with little time for public input but Procopio believes it’s really up to the voters to accept or reject the changes…

Cut 12 (11) “…pull back more.” 

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The special session is over and two major pieces of legislation came out of it. Lawmakers approved a Congressional map with two majority Black districts and Louisiana’s federal elections will shift from open primaries to party primaries starting in 2026. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Governor Landry advocated hard for party primary elections…

Cut 13 (11) “…change that.”

Elections for the Louisiana Supreme Court, Public Service Commission, and the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education will also move party primaries in 2026. Unaffiliated voters will be able to vote in those primary elections.

Landry says the outcome of the special session is a win for the people of Louisiana…

Cut 14 (08) “…great state” 

Governor Landry is expected to sign the new Congressional districting map. It includes a second majority-minority district, which is what a federal judge ordered the Louisiana Legislature to do. Landry says it was important for lawmakers to redraw the political boundaries…

Cut 15 (08) …Congressional maps“

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LSU men’s basketball could not defend its home court on Saturday as they lost to Texas A-and-M 73-69. The Aggies had 21 offensive rebounds to LSU’s six and they outscored the Tigers 27-0 in second-chance points. LSU Coach Matt McMahon’s team is now 3-2 in the SEC…

Cut 16 (16) “..won the game” 

Six-foot-ten Jalen Reed had ten points and says they need to do a better job on the glass for the rest of the season…

Cut 17 (23) “…happen again” 

Jordan Wright had a double-double, 15 points and 10 rebounds in a losing effort.

Cut 18 (18)  “…tougher team” 

LSU is on the road this week, at Georgia on Wednesday and Alabama on Saturday night.

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The tenth-ranked LSU women’s basketball team scored the first 18 points of yesterday’s game against Arkansas on their way to a 99-68. Freshman MIkaylah Williams led all scorers with 21 points. Hailey Van Lith had 20 points and six assists. Angel Reese had her 11th double-double, 16 points and 17 boards. Reese says Van Lith is doing well as the team’s point guard…

Cut 19 (19) “… really good” 

LSU is 18-2 overall, 5-1 in the SEC. Up next is a highly anticipated matchup against top-ranked South Carolina. The Lady Tigers won in blowout fashion in their two games since losing to Auburn last Sunday. Coach Kim Mulkey says they are playing with more togetherness since the loss to Auburn…

Cut 20 (22) “…do it collectively.”

A closed party primary bill is heading to Jeff Landry’s desk, but it’s not as expansive as the governor wanted. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Governor Jeff Landry’s plan to finance a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge calls for tolls but at a lower cost than what the Edwards Administration proposed. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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The state Legislature approved a bill that would result in a move to party primary elections for Congress, BESE, PSC and Louisiana Supreme Court starting in 2026. Statewide, legislative local elections would continue to use the jungle primary system. It’s not everything Governor Jeff Landry wanted. Democratic New Orleans Senator Royce Duplessis says voters did not ask for this change…

Cut 3 (07) “…are going to be frustrated.”

Despite Duplessis’ opposition, the Senate approved the bill on a 29 to 9 vote and the House voted 67-36 . New Iberia Senator Blake Miguez carried the bill for the governor on the Senate floor…

Cut 4 (10) “..a reality”

Elections for Louisiana Supreme Court, PSC and BESE would also move to party primaries in 2026 under this bill. And unaffiliated voters will be able to vote in the primaries.

Landry asked lawmakers to pass a bill that would only allow registered voters of a party to vote in their party primary. He also wanted closed party primaries for federal and state elections. Carencro Representative Julie Emerson is the author of the legislation…

Cut 5 (08) “…different voices here.” 

The proposal heads to the governor’s desk for his signature.

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Visitation for Grammy-winning Cajun musician Jo-EL Sonnier is being held this afternoon, and his funeral will be tomorrow in Sulphur. The 77-year-old collapsed shortly after a performance in Llano, Texas last Saturday. Executive Director of the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame Mike Shepard says Sonnier died doing what he loved…

Cut 6 (09) “…go out.” 

Sonnier was born in Rayne, Louisiana in 1946. As a child, he was diagnosed with autism and Shepard says as a way to cope, his physician told him to learn to play an instrument. Shepard says Sonnier’s doctors agreed with his choice of the accordion.

Cut 7 (05) “…that happened.” 

During his musical career, Sonnier was honored with numerous accolades, including a Grammy in 2015, an ACM Male Vocalist of the Year nomination and he was inducted into seven Music Hall of Fames. Shepard says the recognition for doing what he loved was extremely meaningful to Sonnier.

Cut 8 (09) “…his heart.” 

In addition to playing all over the world, Sonnier was a studio musician on more than 100 albums including Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Neil Diamond, and Merle Haggard. He also wrote songs for George Strait and fellow Louisianian Jerry Lee Lewis.

Instead of flowers, donations can be made to AutismSpeaks-dot-org.

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Governor Jeff Landry says a new deal has been struck to build a new I-10 Calcasieu River Bridge. Landry says this plan reduces the overall cost of the bridge by 25 percent. He says federal and state dollars will pay for the bridge, plus tolls, but not as high as proposed by the Edwards Administration

Cut 9 (10) “…26 percent” 

Landry says because of Lake Charles’s proximity to Texas, 60 percent of the people paying the tolls will be from outside of Louisiana.

Landry says the state will also get 15 percent equity in the bridge under the deal negotiated with Calcasieu Bridge Partners. He says that means 15 percent of the profits will go back to the area. The governor says that money can be used to reduce tolls or fund other projects

Cut 10 (08) “…imperial Calcasieu” 

The Louisiana Motor Transport Association opposed the financing plan proposed last year by the Edwards administration and they do not like Landry’s plan, even though it reduces the toll for trucks to cross the bridge from $12.50 to $8.25. Director of the L-M-T-A Renee Amar…

Cut 11 (11) “…Louisiana truckers.”

It could cost two billion dollars to replace the Calcasieu River Bridge built in 1952. Amar says no other stretch of I-10 from California and Florida is tolled and believes federal and state tax dollars should pay for construction…

Cut 12 (08)  “…money eventually”  

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The Louisiana Legislature has sent a Congressional map to the governor’s desk that has two majority Black districts. This could result in a second Louisiana Democrat being elected to the U-S House. State Representative Beau Beuallieu says the proposed Congressional boundaries also protect four Republican members…

Cut 13 (15) “…Louisiana” 

A federal judge ordered the Louisiana Legislature to redraw the Congressional map lawmakers approved in 2022, because it violated the Voting Rights Act by not having two majority-minority districts.

U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick gave the legislature a January 30th deadline to rewrite the map, so Governor Landry called lawmakers into a special session. St. Bernard Parish Representative Michael Bayham voted against the map because of the rushed process.

Cut  14 (08) “…a mess”

Beauailleau says if the Legislature did not redraw the map, Judge Shelly Dick would and that could be messy too…

Cut 15 (11) “…her decision”

The Foo Fighters and Chris Stapleton are among the headliners for JazzFest this year, that’s in addition to The Rolling Stones. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (31)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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There have been 38 home fires in Louisiana in the just the last four days. Colleen Crain discusses fire response and safety…

Cut 2 (33)  “…I’m Colleen Crain” 

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Blood donations have dropped to critical levels in Louisiana. Spokesperson for The Blood Center, Paul Adams, says a combination of things has led to a lull in supply, the holidays, carnival season, and the cold weather.

Cut 3 (12) “…blood supply.”

Preferrable, Adams says they like to have a supply of 3 to 5 days on hand but at the moment it’s down to one day.

Cut 4 (10) “…anybody.”

Donating blood has its perks; Adams says you’ll learn your blood type and they can check your cholesterol and iron levels…

Cut 5 (07) “…three lives.” 

Since the pandemic. Ochsner Health has seen a 40% drop in blood donations, with more people working from home and blood drives at schools and the workplace not as routine as they were in the past

To find a blood drive near you in southeast Louisiana visit TheBloodCenter-dot-org or reach out to your local hospital to find their local supplier.

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The line-up for JazzFest is out and in addition to The Rolling Stones headlining, the Foo Fighters, Chris Stapleton, and Queen Latifah are also on the bill. NOLA.com and Times-Picayune Entertainment Writer Keith Spera says they’ve also got some of the fresher younger bands playing.

Cut 6 (12) “…this year.” 

Spera says festival organizers have outdone themselves again, bringing in big names, and up-and-coming artists while also paying a nod to those artists who made JazzFest what it is today. For example, a tribute to the late Jimmy Buffett…

Cut 7 (10) “…as well.” 

The dates this year are April 25^th through the 28^th and May 2^nd through the 5^th. Spera says it’s kind of a bonus JazzFest this year with eight days at the Fairgrounds versus seven.

Cut 8 (13) “…top to bottom.” 

Weekend passes and VIP Packages are also on sale now. For the full line-up visit NOjazzfest.com

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In the first 18 days of 2024 there have been 131 fires across Louisiana and in the last four days, 38. Regional Disaster Officer for the Red Cross, Ed Bush says during these cold days keep safe by keeping space heaters and other heat producing electric items away from flammables in your home…

Cut 9 (08) “…inside the house.” 

Bush also says, be sure to unplug the heaters before going to bed.

Tragic House fires are far too common especially in the cold weather, but Bush says, one thing can make the difference in your survival….

Cut 10 (10) “…out safely.” 

The Red Cross will install a smoke detector free of charge if you ask.

Bush says the Red Cross responds to house fires and provides comfort and financial assistance and he wishes everyone would have a plan and prepare for the possibility…

Cut 11 (09) “…emergency plan.”

Information for those wanting to volunteer or partner with the Red Cross in times of tragedy and need, visit RedCross Dot Org Slash Louisiana

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A 22-year-old woman is behind bars in Livingston Parish after allegedly fatally shooting her father and sister. Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard says 22-year-old Kennetra Ary killed two of her family members at a mobile home near Walker…

Cut 12 (13)  “…their lives”  

58-year-old Kenneth Ary of Walker and 21-year-old Helen Ary of Tomball, Texas were found dead at the scene. Ard says a Walker police officer who lived near the shooting got to the scene quickly…

Cut 13 (10) “…this situation” 

Kennetra Ary was charged with two counts of first degree murder. Ard says she was arrested at the scene…

Cut  14 (08) “…the moment.”

The Bayou State is thawing from the frigid temperatures of the last few days, but winter isn’t over yet. Colleen Crain looks ahead to the warmup and cool down of the next few days…

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson believes the Louisiana Legislature should not draw a new Congressional map. Jeff Palermo reports the Bossier Parish Republican says the state should press for a trial on the current map…

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo” 

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Nicholls State University has received a $3-million donation, which is the largest in the school’s history. Nicholls’ spokesperson Jerad David says the Mary and Al Danos Family Foundation commitment will be used to construct a new College of Business Administration.

Cut 3 (11) “…State University.”

David says Al Danos was always a big fan and supporter of the university and the generous donation from his family will not only go towards funding a new building, but it will also carry on the family’s legacy.

Cut 4 (11) “…Business Administration.”

Approximately one-fifth of Nicholls’ students are business majors.

In addition to the $3-million donation, David says the school is seeking state capital outlay funds and private funds to construct the new Al Danos building.

David says the atrium in the new building will be named after The Brady Family, who’s also from Bayou Lafourche, thanks to their recent donation. He says they hope these donations will inspire others to leave their mark on the university as well.

Cut 5 (11) “…new facility.” 

The new building will be located on the current site of the school’s J.J. Ayo Swimming Pool.

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The Bayou State is coming out of a deep freeze but don’t put away your hats and gloves just yet.  Montra Lockwood with the National Weather Service Lake Charles says to look for a short break from the freeze…

Cut 6 (08) “…on Friday.” 

Tonight, expect temperatures in the 20s north of I-10 and in the lower 30s in the southern part of the state.

After the quick reprieve from the freezing temperatures, expect a frigid weekend says Lockwood…

Cut 7 (08) “…I-10 corridor.” 

The weekend temperatures will still challenge Louisiana’s normal winter lows but as far as snow and freezing rain, Lockwood says…

Cut 8 (09) “…next week.” 

Lockwood says warmer weather, up into the 60s is coming next week.

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U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson believes Louisiana’s current Congressional map is constitutional and the state legislature should not approve a new map with two Black majority districts. But Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says the state has exhausted all of its legal avenues…

Cut 9 (10) “…map.” 

U-S District Judge Shelly Dick ruled the map the Louisiana Legislature approved in 2022 violates the Voting Rights Act because only one of the six districts provides an avenue for a Black candidate to get elected.

Speaker Johnson says there should be a full-blown trial on Louisiana’s current map, but Murrill says they have to follow Judge Dick’s order to draw a new map by January 30th…

Cut 10 (10) “…my remedies.” 

Governor Jeff Landry is backing a map that makes Republican Garret Graves’ sixth district the second Black voting district. Louisiana’s lone Black Congressman Troy Carter says the governor and the legislature are doing the right thing…

Cut 11 (05) “…African American districts.”

The map Landry supports is up for a vote in the Senate today. Graves calls it a crazy proposal because it runs from Baton Rouge to Shreveport.

Johnson leads a chamber with a slim Republican majority and a new map with two majority minority districts would likely give Democrats another seat in the House.

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As legislators debate changing to closed-party primary elections, US Senator Bill Cassidy believes it’s a waste of money.  A fiscal note on the legislation quotes a $10 million figure for next fiscal year and $6 million for the following fiscal year. Cassidy says a Louisiana pollster has estimated a $90 million cost to taxpayers.

Cut 12 (08)  “…on here.”  

Cassidy also worries the change will disenfranchise the state’s approximately 800-thousand Independent voters. The Republican also believes if the system isn’t broken don’t fix it and that taxpayers shouldn’t pick up the tab.

Cut 13 (07) “…you pay for it.” 

Cassidy says the public doesn’t see closed party primaries as a priority.

Cut  14 (12) “…(x2) roads and bridges.”

Cassidy says voters who have a strong opinion on open or closed primaries should contact their state lawmakers.

The Saints have fired offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael after 18 seasons with the organization, 15 as the offensive coordinator. Beau Gaspard has the story…

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Beau Gaspard”

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee approves a bill to move Louisiana from a jungle primary to closed party primaries. Colleen Crain has the story…

Cut 2 (35)  “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The congressional map backed by Governor Landry, that drastically changes Congressman Garret Graves district advances from committee. Brooke Thorington explains.

Cut 3 (43) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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The Saints have fired offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael. Carmichael was the offensive coordinator for the last 15 seasons and he’s been with the franchise for 18 years. After missing the playoffs for a third consecutive season, change felt inevitable according to the host of the Locked On Saints podcast Ross Jackson…

Cut 4 (12) “…offensive system.”

Many in the Who Dat Nation believe head coach Dennis Allen should be fired, but Jackson says the Saints look at the inconsistency of the offense as a reason why Carmichael needed to be replaced.

Cut 5 (13) “…improve here.” 

Jackson on some possible replacements for Carmichael…

Cut 6 (11) “…in the NFL.”

Senior offensive assistant Bob Bicknell and wide receivers coach Kodi Burns were also let go.

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The House Governmental Affairs Committee approves a closed-party primary bill supported by Governor Jeff Landry. Carencro Representative Julie Emerson’s proposal would shift, federal, statewide, and certain judicial elections from a jungle primary to closed-party primaries. New Orleans Democrat Candace Newell says the Legislature should not rush to do this

Cut 7 (12) “…dedicate to it.”

Governor Jeff Landry wants lawmakers to pass this legislation during the current special session which ends next Tuesday.

Opponents also raised concerns that Independents will be disenfranchised because they can’t vote in the primaries. But Emerson says that’s not accurate…

Cut 8 (12) “…party.” 

Supporters of the closed primary system say it will lead to better candidates on the ballot for the general election. Emerson says voters who identify with a party should be in control of that process

Cut 9 (11)  “…nominee.”

Louisiana uses a closed-party system to nominate a President and the state had closed primaries for the 2008 and 2010 federal elections. Public Affairs Research Council President Steven Procopio says voters found closed primaries confusing and demanded the state goes back to the jungle primary system…

Cut 10 (07) “…rid of it.”

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The congressional map redesign Governor Jeff Landry supports in the special session, Senate Bill 8, makes drastic changes to Congressman Garret Graves’s district and the Baton Rouge Republican is not happy about it. The proposal would make the sixth district the second Black majority district and it extends from Baton Rouge to Caddo Parish. Graves says…

Cut 11 (10) “…State of Louisiana.” 

Graves points out that the congressional map passed by a two-thirds majority in the legislature two years ago has not been through what’s called a merits trial, to determine if it violates redistricting principles or not.

Cut 12 (13) “…incredibly premature.” 

Graves also wonders why the Republican-controlled legislature would just roll over without fighting for the current map and accept the proposed map in Senate Bill 8 because it would weaken the GOP majority in the US House.

While presenting Senate Bill 8 in committee, Catahoula Parish Senator Glen Womack says the map’s boundaries assure Congresswoman Julia Letlow, who serves on US Appropriations and Agriculture committees remains unimpaired by any other congressional incumbents…

Cut 13 (06) “…this decade.”

Because of the geographical makeup of the state’s Black population, Womack says this particular map creates two Black-majority districts; District 2 represents minorities in New Orleans, and District 6, includes minorities in Baton Rouge and extends to include Blacks in Shreveport. He says this map also ensures Letlow will remain in Congress and…

Cut 14 (11) “…of Louisiana.” 

Senate Bill 8 which advanced from committee is one of several maps lawmakers are considering during the special session.

US District Judge Shelly Dick, of the Middle District of Louisiana, issued an end-of-the-month deadline for lawmakers to redraw the state’s Congressional map with two Black-majority districts.

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Louisiana Tech’s Athletic Director is heading to Ole Miss. After serving the university for three years marked by some major challenges, Dr. Eric Wood will become a Senior Deputy AD at Ole Miss. Tech President Dr. Jim Henderson says Wood will be missed

Cut 15 (11) “…in the classroom”

After tornados destroyed athletic facilities, Wood raised funds and oversaw the rebuilding of a new baseball park, and a softball and soccer complex Henderson called a marvel of innovation. Henderson says Wood supports the student in the student-athlete…

Cut 16 (10) “..proud of them” 

Dr. Wood will serve through the end of January then Deputy Athletic Director Mary Kay Hungate will serve as interim AD. Henderson says in the next few weeks, Louisiana Tech will develop a process to select the next athletic director worthy of the Bulldogs…

Cut 17 (10) “…towards that vision.”