9:30 LRN Newscast

Senator John Kennedy says he’s not running for governor and will stay in DC to represent the Bayou State. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says his decision brings the focus back to where we were in the fall with about a dozen different politicians considering a gubernatorial run.
Cut 13 (11) “…wait long.”
Alford says expect to hear announcements from Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and State Treasurer John Schroder next week.

The latest U-S Census data shows Louisiana lost nearly 37-thousand residents from July 2021 to July 2022. Louisiana ranks fifth in the country in the number of residents lost. Demographer Greg Rigamer says many leave the state for better paying jobs…
cut 6 (08) “…is very low”

DOTD has opened one lane on eastbound Interstate 10 where an overpass was damaged at I-10 and Evangeline Thruway. Whitney Thomas reports transportation officials are still expecting delays…
cut 2 (28) “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

The work release inmate accused of killing a co-worker at Foster Farms in Farmerville has been arrested in Texas. 48-year-old Bruce Causey allegedly fatally stabbed Ketrick Lavon Calhoun last April and then fled the scene. Authorities found Causey after responding to a verbal domestic incident at home in Pearland, Texas on New Year’s Eve.

8:30 LRN newscast

In an email to supporters, Senator John Kennedy said he will not run for governor as he believes he can best serve the state in Washington D-C. Kennedy’s decision to opt out, opens the door for a large field of candidates in the October primary. LaPolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says one of those potential candidates is Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves…
cut 15 (11) “..have to”

On Capitol Hill, Congress is paralyzed at the moment. New Orleans Representative Troy Carter…
cut 11 (07) “….a Speaker”
And without a chosen speaker, House members in the 118th Congress have yet to be sworn in. Carter says committees are unable to be assigned and important votes concerning the war in Ukraine, the economy, healthcare, crime, and the environment remain stalled.

New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows Louisiana among the top states for population loss. More from Kevin Gallagher…:
Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

Ruston Police have made an arrest in the Christmas morning fatal shooting that took place outside of a Waffle House Restaurant. 28-year-old Gerkerrio Demon Womack was taken into custody at a home in Ruston. He’s charged with second-degree murder in the shooting death of 30-year-old Germil Deantonious Rhone.

7:30 LRN newscast January 5

Senator John Kennedy says he’s not running for governor and will stay in DC to represent the Bayou State. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says his decision brings the focus back to where we were in the fall with about a dozen different politicians considering a gubernatorial run.
Cut 13 (11) “…wait long.”
Alford says expect to hear announcements from Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and State Treasurer John Schroder next week.

New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows Louisiana among the top states losing population. From 2021 through 2022, our state lost nearly 37-thousand residents. Demographer Greg Rigamer says a great many left to take higher-paying jobs in other states…:
Cut 4 (06) “…in Louisiana.”
Rigamer says we rank 45th among states for median household income, and that results in people leaving.

Congress remains stalled after multiple votes for House Speaker continue to keep California Republican Kevin McCarthy from reaching a majority. And Louisiana’s lone Democrat in the House, New Orleans Representative Troy Carter says each vote appears to further diminish McCarthy’s chances for Speaker.
Cut 10 (11) “…Speaker of the House.”
McCarthy remains committed he’ll get the necessary votes to be the next House Speaker.

For motorists in the Lafayette area, the left lane of eastbound I-10 has reopened but the right lane remains blocked after an 18-wheeler hit the overpass at Evangeline Thruway. There were heavy traffic delays yesterday and DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett says they expect more today, even though one lane has been reopened…
cut 9 (09) “…165 as well”
Mallett says it will take some work to that overpass before the interstate is fully re-opened.

6:45 LRN Sportscast

The Saints are back at practice, but with heavy hearts over the health of Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Hamlin is in critical condition after going into cardiac arrest during Monday’s game against Cincinnati. Saints quarterback Andy Dalton says seeing a life and death situation on the football field makes you take a step back…
cut 17 (15) “….this game”
A family spokesperson told the Associated Press that Hamlin’s recovery is moving in a positive direction, but didn’t provide specifics.

The Pelicans easily defeated the Rockets last night 119 to 108. They led by double figures for most of the game as six players scored in double figures led by CJ McCollum, who had 28 points. It was New Orleans first game since knowing Zion Williamson will miss at least the next three weeks because of a strained hamstring.

Last night in college hoops, Tulane trounced Tulsa 93 to 77 as Jalen Cook scored 24 points and dished out seven assists. Cameron Christon had 25 points and nine rebounds as Grambling defeated Texas Southern 85-72. Southern improved to 2-0 in the SWAC with a 66-62 win over Prairie View A-and-M.

Tonight, the Ragin Cajuns who are 0-2 in Sun Belt play will host Southern Miss. Coach Bob Marlin says they need to defend their home court…
cut 20 (19) “…big difference”
Tip-off is at 7 PM.

ULM is 2-0 in the Sun Belt and the Warhawks host Georgia State. Louisiana Tech is in Houston to take on Rice. The Owls are 11-and-3 and have won five in a row.

6:30 LRN Newscast

Senator John Kennedy tells supporters in an email he will not run for governor. This opens the door for several Republicans to enter the race that has Attorney General Jeff Landry as an announced candidate. LaPolitics-dot-com publisher Jeremy Alford says Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is expected to announce his candidacy Tuesday, his 64th birthday…
cut 14 (12) “….his announcement”

There is a major traffic issue in Lafayette as result of an 18-wheeler hitting the I-10 Eastbound overpass at Evangeline Thruway. DOTD spokesperson Rodney Mallett…
cut 7 (13) “…working order”
And last night the eastbound left lane of I-10 was reopened, but expect more delays.

The quandary over who will reign as Speaker of the House has completely stalled the 118th congress. Brooke Thorington has more
Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

AM LRN Newscall Jan 5

New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows Louisiana among the top states for population loss. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (29)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

________________________________________________________

Travelers using the I-10 and Evangeline Thruway in Lafayette can expect delays as a result of damage to an overpass.  Whitney Thomas has that story

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Whitney Thomas.”

_______________________________________________

The quandary over who will reign as Speaker of the House has completely stalled the 118th congress. Brooke Thorington has more

Cut 3 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

_____________________________________________

New data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows Louisiana among the top states losing population. From 2021 through 2022, our state lost nearly 37-thousand residents; placing 5th behind New York, California, Illinois & Pennsylvania. New Orleans demographer Greg Rigamer says a great many left to take higher-paying jobs in other states…:

Cut 4 (06)  “…in Louisiana.”

In July 2021 the state’s population was at 4-million 627-thousand. A year later it was 4-million 590-thousand. Rigamer says we rank 45th among states for median household income, and that results in people leaving…:

Cut 5 (13) “…a big disparity.”

The same Census data shows Louisiana #3 among states for percentage of population lost(0.8 %), behind New York and Illinois. Rigamer says states with population gains often have more diversified economies and business sectors than Louisiana, and less onerous tax structures. Rigamer says this seemingly defies state figures showing low unemployment and a glut of jobs statewide…:

Cut 6 (08)  “…is very low.” 

_____________________________________________

There is a major traffic problem in Lafayette as the I-10 Eastbound bridge at the Evangeline Thruway is closed after being struck by an 18-wheeler on Tuesday. State Department of Transportation spokesperson Rodney Mallett says they are working on ways to keep traffic flowing.

Cut 7 (13) “…in working order.”

Mallet says motorists should prepare to be alert because of the changes and understanding of those who aren’t familiar with the area. 

Cut 8 (13)  “…not from there.”

Eastbound traffic on I-10 is being diverted southbound on I-49.  Mallett says they are seeing heavy impacts on I-49, the Evangeline thruway, and US-190. He says travelers need to take precautions.

Cut 9 (09)  “…I65 as well.”

____________________________________________

Congress remains stalled after multiple votes for House Speaker continue to keep California Republican Kevin McCarthy from reaching a majority. And Louisiana’s lone Democrat in the House, New Orleans Representative Troy Carter says each vote appears to further diminish McCarthy’s chances for Speaker.

Cut 10 (11) “…Speaker of the House.” 

After the midterm elections, the Democratic Party was no longer the majority party in the House and Carter says Democrats relinquished control at noon on Tuesday, and ever since the lower chamber remains paralyzed.

Cut 11 (07)  “…a Speaker.”

And without a chosen speaker, Carter like other elected congressional members, remain Representative-Elect and have yet to be sworn in. Carter says committees are unable to be assigned and important votes concerning the war in Ukraine, the economy, healthcare, crime, and the environment remain stalled.

Cut 12 (07) “…of the House.”

While the situation is not unheard of it’s been more than a century since a Speaker of the House has not been elected in the first round of votes.

___________________________________________________

Senator John Kennedy says he’s not running for the governor and will stay in DC to represent the Bayou State. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says his decision brings the focus back to where we were in the fall with about two dozen different politicians considering a gubernatorial run.

Cut 13 (11) “…wait long.”

So far Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry and Independent personal injury attorney Hunter Lundy are officially running. Alford says Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser is expected to announce his candidacy on Tuesday, his 64th birthday.

Cut 14 (12)  “…his announcement.”

Alford says Republicans Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson and Slidell Senator Sharon Hewitt are others considering a run for governor.

And with Kennedy no longer a factor in the governor’s race, Alford says the focus shifts to Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves.

Cut 15 (11)  “…have to”

Alford says now the only role Kennedy will play in the 2023 governor’s race is who he’ll endorse. As for Democrats, Alford says DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson and Chair of the Louisiana Democratic Party Katie Bernhardt are considering entering the race.

________________________________________________________

All NFL teams are getting ready for this weekend’s games with heavy hearts as they continue to pray and think about Bills Safety Damar Hamlin, who remains in critical condition after making a tackle in Monday night’s game. Saints Coach Dennis Allen says there is a concern about the players’ mental health…

Cut  16 (19)  “…cope through this.” 

Medical personnel performed CPR on Hamlin after he collapsed on the team. The Bills say, Hamlin, who is in the ICU and critical condition, has shown signs of improvement. Saints quarterback Andy Dalton says seeing a life-and-death situation on the football field makes you take a step back…

 Cut 17 (15) “…this game.” 

_____________________________________________________

ULM men’s basketball returns to Fant-Ewing Coliseum tonight after winning its first two Sun Belt games on the road last week, a four-point win over Texas State and a 12-point victory over Arkansas State. Warhawks Coach Keith Richard says they are rebounding the ball better…

Cut 18 (21) “…some games” 

Tonight, ULM hosts Georgia State, who is 1-1 in the Sun Belt and coming off a win over South Alabama. Richard says the Panthers play a physical brand of basketball…

 Cut 19 (18) “…poised”

 

Cut 20 (19)     …big difference.” 

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5:30 Newscall

Louisiana Senator John Kennedy says he’s not running for governor. The state’s junior senator sent a letter to his closest supporters thanking them for their encouragement but says he’s looked deep into his heart and decided not to run. Kennedy’s letter stated he believes he can do more for the state and country by serving in the US Senate. To date, only Attorney General Jeff Landry has announced his official campaign for governor.

Drivers are seeing a spike in gasoline prices, but it should not last long. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

Congress remains in limbo until a new Speaker of the House is chosen and after multiple attempts, it remains undecided. GOP Leader Kevin McCarthy has been nominated five times and has yet to garner enough votes. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says voting for speaker, unlike other issues, is a lengthy process.

Cut 12 (13) “…this case 34 names.”  

Hot and dry weather, than a late summer flood, then more hot and dry weather resulted in more than 500-million dollars in crop losses for Louisiana farmers in 2022. LSU AgCenter Economist Michael Deliberto says parts of northeast Louisiana saw 18 inches of rain during a week-long period in late August,

 Cut 6 (12)  “…quality reduction” 

 

4:45 LRN Sportscast

The Pelicans have announced star forward Zion Williamson will miss at least the next three weeks because of a hamstring strain. New Orleans will host the Houston Rockets tonight. The Pels are looking to snap a two-game losing streak. They are one game back of Denver for first place in the West.

LSU is now 1-and-1 in SEC play after losing a hard fought game to Kentucky 74-71 last night. The Tigers are at Texas A-and-M on Saturday.

The Aggies have reportedly hired Bobby Petrino as their new offensive coordinator and he’ll take over play calling responsibilities from head coach Jimbo Fisher. Petrino has served as the offensive coordinator at Missouri State the last three seasons. He’s previously been a head coach at Arkansas and Louisville, when Lamar Jackson won the Heisman Trophy in 2016.

On the prep level, Lafayette Christian has a new head football coach, Hunter Landry. He was the Knights offensive coordinator the last two seasons.

The Buffalo Bills say safety Damar Hamlin remains in the ICU and in critical condition, but signs of improvement have been noted since he collapsed on the field in Monday night’s game against the Bengals. LSU Health New Orleans cardiac electrophysiologist Doctor Jameel Ahmed says being in the I-C-U allows the body to rehabilitate after a traumatic event…
cut 15 (12) “….its own”

Week 18 of the NFL season will go on as scheduled. That means the Saints will host Carolina this Sunday. It’s a meaningless game but Coach Dennis Allen says every player who is healthy will play….
cut 18 (21) “…what we do”
The Saints have won three straight.

4:30 LRN Newscast Jan 04

Six times the U.S. House has taken a vote to choose its new Speaker with majority leader Kevin McCarthy failing to get the 218 votes needed to take that position. Until the House chooses its next leader all congressional business is on hold. Louisiana District 6 Congressman Garret Graves says this is a lengthy process…:

CUT 12  (13)        “…34 names.”

This is the first time the House has failed to elect a speaker in the first ballot since 1913.

How are gasoline prices for Louisiana consumers in the New Year? The statewide average price of regular gas is $2.94; up over 15-cents from a week ago, but still a dime cheaper than a year ago. Louisiana AAA’s Don Redman says he expects prices to drop over the winter…:

CUT 09  (10)        “…to do with demand.”

 

I-10 Eastbound in Lafayette remains closed near the Evangeline Thruway due to structural damage to the overpass, says DOTD’s Rodney Mallett. Eastbound I-10 traffic is being detoured at U.S. 165 and to I-49, then U.S. 190 east. When the roadway will reopen is unknown at this hour.

Hot and dry weather, than a late summer flood, then more hot and dry weather resulted in more than 500-million dollars in crop losses for Louisiana farmers in 2022. LSU AgCenter Economist Michael Deliberto says 2022 was a good year for sugarcane, but they are still trying to determine the extent of damage from the freezing temperatures Christmas week…:

CUT 08(07)      “…first time.”

800-thousand acres of the soybean crop was damaged; 68-percent of the crop. That’s $316-million in soybean losses alone.

We’ll have some nice weather across Louisiana for the next few days, with afternoon highs raging into the low-to-mid 70’s. Our next real chance of rain comes in Sunday and Monday.

3:30 LRN Newscast Jan 04

Interstate 10 Eastbound in Lafayette remains closed at this hour, after a big rig’s load hit an overpass and did structural damage. DOTD says eastbound lanes are still closed at the Evangeline Thruway. Traffic is being detoured onto I-49 until further notice while structural tests are done to assure motorists safety.

Congress is at a standstill, as vote after vote for a new House Speaker falls apart. California Rep. Kevin McCarthy cannot muster the votes needed to be made Speaker, and until he – or someone – is, all House business must wait. Baton Rouge area Congressman Garret Graves says, regardless of troubles electing McCarthy, the mid-term elections that put the GOP in majority is an indication voters want accountability against the Biden Administration…:

CUT 14(10)      “…void that’s there.”

Graves says he has voted and will keep voting for McCarthy to the Speaker.

 

LSU’S Pennington Biomedical Research Center’s DASH Diet receives tops rankings among U.S. News and World Report’s list of Best Diets…:

CUT 01(29)      “…Thorington.”

The National Weather Service has confirmed that the tornado that moved through Jackson Parish east of Jonesboro Monday was an EF-2, with peak winds of 122 mph. The twister’s path covered over 15 miles and damaged numerous homes and other structures. No fatalities have been reported and only three people were moderately hurt.