The two candidates in the Insurance Commissioner’s race were face to face in a debate at Baton Rouge Press Club. One of the major focal points of discussion was on Louisiana’s auto insurance rates. Challenger Tim Temple touts 20-plus years of industry knowledge and says the state is facing an insurance crisis as the most unaffordable state for insurance
cut 8 (10) “…true catastrophe mode”
Incumbent Commissioner Jim Donelon blames a broken legal system and limits need to be put in place on damages awarded against insurance companies…
Cut 7 (09)“…seated next year.”
Temple says Donelon has had 14 years as commissioner to pass tort reform and lower rates and he’s failed. Donelon says the tide is turning as three auto insurance providers have recently announced lower premiums.

Eddie Rispone begins airing a TV ad today that attacks fellow GOP gubernatorial candidate Ralph Abraham. A recent independent poll has Rispone eight points back of Abraham as the two fight for a chance to face Governor Edwards in a run-off. LSU-Shreveport Political Science Professor Jeff Sadow says the attack ad is concerning for Republicans.
Cut 14 (11) “…Edwards”
Back in March, Louisiana GOP Chairman Louis Gurvich released a statement asking the Republican candidates to focus their criticism on Edwards, because in-party fighting will only help Edwards win a second term in office.