Republicans are on the verge of holding a supermajority in both the House and Senate. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_____________________________

A Louisiana senate race appears headed to a three-person runoff. Don Molino has the story…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Don Molino”   

________________________________________

Based on the results from the October 12th election, Republicans are two seats away from capturing a Super Majority in the state House. Dr. Michael Henderson, assistant professor at the LSU Manship School of Mass Communication, says the GOP won several house seats Saturday held by a Democrat, but voters in that district supported President Trump in 2016

Cut 3 (11) “…to three”

Henderson says if Republicans win the 50th House district seat in St. Mary Parish and the 62nd in East Feliciana and on hold on to the seats they already have, they’ll have the 70 needed for a supermajority. Henderson says in the 62nd district Johnny Arceneaux is looking to defeat incumbent Roy Adams, who is an Independent…

Cut 4 (11) “…Republican challengers”

Democrats can also prevent a supermajority of Republicans in the House by winning either the 70th or 94th district races which are in Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Henderson says if Republicans have a supermajority in the House and Democrat John Bel Edwards wins re-election for governor, we might see the legislature override a governor’s veto…

Cut 5 (09) “…party unity.”

Republicans have already achieved a supermajority as the picked up two additional seats in the Senate.

________________________________________

A highly competitive Baton Rouge Senate race is likely headed for a hand recount after a voting tally adjustment results in a tie between Republican Representatives Franklin Foil and Steve Carter.

As of Sunday morning it looked like Foil would make the run-off over Carter by an eight vote margin. Senator Dan Claitor, who was term-limited out of the disputed seat, says it’s an incredible development.

Cut 6 (11) “…settle”

Democrat Beverly Brooks Thompson has the most votes and is guaranteed a spot in the Senate District 16 run-off.

The recent update puts both Carter and Foil at 12,522. Former state Democratic Party Chairman Jim Nichol says each campaign can select two representatives to witnesses the recount.

Cut 7 (08) “…private”

If the vote remains tied, a three-way run-off will likely be held. Whoever obtains a plurality of votes would then be elected without needing over 50 percent.

The race for the 16^th had the second highest turnout of any state senate competition. Nichol says this race is another reminder that every vote counts…

Cut 8 (11) “…morning”

______________________________

Widespread showers and thunderstorms over the next couple of days will bring rain to the state that hasn’t seen much precipitation over the last several weeks. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a front is currently stalled along the coastline…

Cut 9 (13) “…even more rain.”

The pattern could result in three to four inches over the next three days, especially over northern parishes.  Keim says two-thirds of the state is considered to be abnormally dry or in drought.

Cut 10 (06) “…things like that.”

Keim says the rate of rain fall with a light drizzle is perfect for recharging the soil.

Cut 11 (11) “…landscape can handle.” 

____________________________

LSU’s impressive win over Florida on Saturday moved the Fighting Tigers to number two in the latest AP Top 25. Alabama is ranked number one, even though LSU has two victories over Top 10 teams and the Crimson Tide’s schedule has not been as difficult. The Advocate’s Brooks Kubena is a Top 25 voter and has a theory on why Bama is ranked number one….

Cut 12 (11) “…that’s it” 

Kubena says LSU’s offense is one of the best in the country, but there are questions about the Tigers defense, which might be why LSU received 12 first-place votes, compared to Alabama’s 30

Cut 13 (09) “…up 28 points.”

In Kubena’s Top 25 poll, he has Ohio State number one, followed by LSU and then Alabama. Kubena says the Buckeyes look like the most complete team to him…

Cut 14 (12) “…doing well”

Election day is tomorrow, and Connor Ferrill has the details.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Connor Ferrill”

_____________________________

There are four constitutional amendments on the October 12th ballot. Jeff Palermo has more…

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

________________________________________

Election day is tomorrow with the gubernatorial race at the top of the ballot. Secretary of State Kyle Ardoin says there are a few things voters should know before they head to the polls…

Cut 3 (11) “…polling stations.”

Ardoin says you can also look at a sample ballot at geauxvote.com. He expects an overall voter turnout of 45 percent.

Ardoin says voters should expect a speedy process and minor wait times on the way to the voting booth…

Cut 4 (12) “…as possible.”

Once voters cast their ballots, they can expect a newly designed I voted sticker which features Louisiana’s state bird the pelican.

Ardoin says if voters have any issues, they should give the secretary of state’s office a call…

Cut 5 (09) “…normal website.”

Visit geaux-vote-dot-com for more information.

________________________________________

The biggest game of the season has arrived for 5th ranked LSU as they host 7th ranked Florida in an SEC Showdown. Quarterback Joe Burrow remembers losing to the Gators in the Swamp last year and badly wants to beat Florida in Death Valley on Saturday night

Cut 6 (08) “…like this”

Burrow says Florida has the best defense they’ve faced this season…

Cut 7 (11) “…get to.”

LSU leads the country in scoring, averaging 55 points per game. Burrow says for the Tigers to put a bunch of points on the scoreboard Saturday night, they need to take advantage of their scoring opportunities….

Cut 8 (10) “…red zone”

______________________________

In addition to the governor’s race and other elections, the October 12th ballot has four proposed constitutional amendments. Public Affairs Research Council of Louisiana Policy Director Steve Procopio advises voters to do their homework before they enter the voting booth…

Cut 9 (09) “governor’s race”

The proposed constitutional amendment that has received the most attention is Amendment Four, which would give New Orleans the ability to create a residential property tax exemption for affordable housing units. Procopio on why the measure must receive approval statewide…

Cut 10 (10) “…regular law”

Amendment one also deals with a property tax exemption. Procopio says it creates a property tax exemption for certain goods that go back and forth between the rigs in the Gulf of Mexico…

Cut 11 (08) “constitutional amendment” 

The other two amendments deal with funding for three schools that are not getting tobacco settlement fund dollars and allowing the Board of Tax Appeals to rule on constitutional amendments. Parlouisiana.org has information on the amendments.

____________________________

Donald Trump supporters will head into the Sudduth Coliseum tonight in Lake Charles to hear the President rally GOP voters to vote Republican in tomorrow’s election. This man explains why he will not vote to re-elect the governor

Cut 12 (05) “…gas industry.” 

Governor John Bel Edwards spoke with reporters in Lake Charles prior to the President’s arrival. Edwards says Louisiana’s economy is strong and growing…

Cut 13 (12) “…in the nation.”

A woman spending the afternoon outside of the Sudduth Coliseum where Trump will speak tonight believes the President’s visit will energize Republican voters

Cut 14 (10) “…they will.”

Edwards says not only is the state’s economy growing, but personal income is up, more jobs are on the way and investments have been made to improve our roads…

Cut 15 (07) “…is yes.”

The Republican gubernatorial candidates hope President Trump’s visit to Lake Charles on Friday will prevent Governor Edwards from winning re-election without the need of a run-off. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (28) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

_____________________________

Louisiana’s national rankings for STD cases has dropped. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (25) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

________________________________________

There were sparks during the final televised gubernatorial primary debate as the candidates tried to make a statement before voters cast their ballot on Saturday. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says nothing occurred that changes the dynamics of the race

Cut 3 (12) “…too late.”

President Donald Trump will be in Lake Charles tomorrow night to rally Louisiana voters to vote for one of the two main Republican candidates. Stockley says getting an endorsement from sitting President is huge, but this is different since Mr. Trump is not back one particular candidate…

Cut 4 (12) “…Republican state”

 A NextStar TV poll has Edwards receiving 43-percent of the vote, Rispone at 21-percent and Abraham at 20-percent, 12-percent are undecided. Stockley on why Edwards has a chance to win the election outright on Saturday…

Cut 5 (10) “…run against”

The election is Saturday and polls are open from 7 AM to 8 PM.

________________________________________

For the second consecutive year, Louisiana ranks number two in the nation for infrastructure investment, according to Site Selection Magazine. Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says the publication recognizes the state’s significant enhancements through recent initiatives.

Cut 6 (08) “…to be done.”

Pierson says the state has seen almost $40 billion invested in infrastructure throughout the state, just in 2019.

Cut 7 (10) “…infrastructures being improved.”

The publication also took into consideration the state’s $50 billion coastal master plan to protect and restore the state’s coast.  Pierson says strengthening wetlands, swamp and estuaries buffers communities and industries against storm surge.

Cut 8 (10) “…and Louisiana workers.”

______________________________

The first question asked at last night’s debate was about the hiring and firing of former Governor Edwards’ Deputy Chief of Staff Johnny Anderson, and his sexual harassment scandal.

Anderson was accused of sexual harassment by six women at Southern University before he was hired into the Edwards Administration. Edwards said before he was hired, Anderson was cleared.

Cut 9 (12) “servant”

Former Edwards employee Juanita Washington accused Anderson of sexual harassment and assault while working under him in the administration.

Cut 10 (05) “…conclusion”

Washington is now suing Edwards for access to documents, emails, and texts related to Anderson’s tenure, saying the Governor covered up the accusations.

Edwards says the office has a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, and the incident inspired a series of sexual harassment reforms in state offices.

Cut 11 (07) “uniform” 

____________________________

A CDC report shows that Louisiana dropped in the rankings for new cases of gonorrhea and early-stage syphilis. Assistant Secretary for the state Office of Public Health Dr. Alex Billioux says Medicaid expansion has been effective in the decline.

Cut 12 (12) “…screening and treatment..” 

In this latest report, Louisiana was ranked seventh for primary and secondary syphilis case rates, declining from #3 and in gonorrhea, the state fell two spots to number five.

Billioux says the state is now making house calls in an effort to help overcome transportation hurdles.

Cut 13 (05) “…about the transportation.”

Billioux says another hurdle faced is the access to medication to treat STD patients.

Cut 14 (10) “…on the spot.”

Congressman Ralph Abraham is attempting to oust Speaker Nancy Pelosi from the House of Representatives ahead of a possible impeachment and three days shy of the gubernatorial primary.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________

 76 teams will cook up over 90 different gumbos in downtown New Iberia this Sunday for the 30th annual World Championship Gumbo Cookoff. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

________________________________________

Congressman Ralph Abraham who is in third place in the recent gubernatorial polls introduces a resolution calling for the expulsion of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and for the Speaker’s Office to be vacated. Political analyst Clancy DuBos says it appears to be an 11th hour effort to drum up support…

Cut 3 (10) “…connect those dots.”

A statement from Abraham says Nancy Pelosi’s vicious crusade against our lawfully-elected president President is nothing more than a politically-motivated witch hunt and it must be stopped.  DuBos says the resolution will not materialize into any sort of action.

Cut 4 (07) “…a publicity stunt”

DuBos expects Abraham to make a further attempt to rally in tonight’s debate in Shreveport, which is closer to his district.

Cut 5 (11) “…in north Louisiana.”

________________________________________

More than 20,000 people are expected to pack into New Iberia this weekend as 76 teams compete to be the 30^th annual Gumbo World Championship Cookoff winner.

Greater Iberia Chamber CEO Janet Faulk-Gonzales says the gumbo is being cooked up for anyone that attends, and you’ll have a chance to fill up at all of the different team’s booths.

Cut 6 (09) “…portion”.

There’s no entry fee, and samples start at four bucks for non-seafood varieties, and five bucks for a seafood gumbo.

Gumbo servings on Sunday start at 11 AM, and Faulk-Gonzales says you’ll have an opportunity to try every style imaginable cooked by teams coming in from across the country.

Cut 7 (09) “…going”

The festival starts on Saturday where 52 of the teams will cook “Anything but gumbo” dishes for the public.

Faulk-Gonzales says after three decades they’ve started narrowing down just what makes the perfect gumbo, and perhaps surprisingly past champions have not included one old-school ingredient.

Cut 8 (07) “…okra.”

And she says they don’t favor tomatoes either.

______________________________

The Lafayette Police Department has released images of a truck that could have been involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash on October 1st that took the life of 19-year-old Kirk Broussard. Corporal Bridgette Dugas says they are looking for a dark-colored pick-up truck…

Cut 9 (08) “little bit”

Dugas says the image of the vehicle released was traveling on Acadian Hills Lane when Broussard was hit and later pronounced dead…

Cut 10 (09) “…October 1st”

Dugas says if anyone can identify the vehicle or the driver of the vehicle please contact the Lafayette Police Department or Lafayette Crime Stoppers. She says at this time, they are not sure if this truck actually hit Broussard…

Cut 11 (08) “we want” 

____________________________

7th ranked Florida will bring one of the best defenses in the country to Tiger Stadium on Saturday night when they battle 5th ranked LSU. Gators Head Coach Dan Mullen says Joe Burrow is the best quarterback they’ve played this year

Cut 12 (12) “…extend plays”

The LSU-Florida rivalry has become heated over the years with the two schools laying claim that they are “D-B-U,” defensive backs university. Mullen says Florida has had its share of great defensive backs…

Cut 13 (09) “…this year”

LSU is a 13-point favorite on Saturday. Mullen says handling the environment inside Tiger Stadium will be a key…

Cut 14 (12)      executing” 

President Donald Trump remains a popular figure in Louisiana according to a new Gray television poll. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________

A new gubernatorial poll has Governor Edwards nearing 50 percent, but being held just shy of avoiding a run-off thanks to support for non-major candidates. Jeff Palermo has the story.

cut  2 (31) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

________________________________________

51 percent of Louisianans would vote for President Trump if the election were held today according to a new Gray Television poll. 60-percent of voters backing the President in north and south-central Louisiana, 51 percent in Baton Rouge, and only 40 percent in New Orleans. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan…

Cut 3 (08) “…election”

43 percent say they would prefer to replace the President with a Democrat, and six percent say they’re unsure.

58 percent of men support the President while only 45 percent of women say the same. Hogan says it’s a consistent trend.

Cut 4 (07) “…the vote”

57 percent of those surveyed say they do not support impeaching the President. Hogan says impeachment is viewed as a partisan attack.

Cut 5 (10) “…things”

625 registered voters were questioned in the survey.

_________________________________________

Uncertainity among small business owners rose slightly in September sending the small business Optimism index down to 101.8. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says higher tariffs are a factor…

Cut 6 (06) “…negative effects”.

Starns says optimism is still at a historically high level, adding Election Day in Louisiana has the potential to bring more clarity to business owners to the future of the business climate in the state.

Cut 7 (11) “…make an impact.”

Starns says businesses want state lawmakers to have a serious discussion on tax reform.

Cut 8 (12) “…overtaxed in Louisiana.”

______________________________

An Emerson College gubernatorial poll puts Governor Edwards at 48 percent, Eddie Rispone at 25 percent, and Ralph Abraham at 19 percent. Polling Director Spencer Kimball says Edwards is a popular figure in the state, nearly as popular as the President.

Cut 9 (12) “approval”

Edwards’ initially polled at 46 percent in the survey but rises to 48 percent when you give him Edwards leaning undecided voters.

Kimball says the two Republican candidates are polling neck and neck across south Louisiana, and the race could come down to who brings out the most voters in north Louisiana.

Cut 10 (11) “…well”

Gary Landrieu, Patrick Landry, and Oscar Danztler combined to take eight percent of the vote. Kimball says if those numbers hold it would likely force the Governor into a run-off, but…

Cut 11 (09) “that” 

The poll surveyed 467 likely voters and has a 4.5 percent margin of error.

____________________________

State officials broke ground today on the third phase of the I-10 widening project in St. Marin Parish. Nearly 88-million dollars will go towards expanding I-10 from four to six lanes between Breaux Bridge and Henderson. Governor Edwards says the widening is essential for the Acadiana region…

Cut 12 (05) “…major freight corridor”

Edwards says this phase is part of a larger project to widen and provide nearly 15 miles of new pavement from I-49 to the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge…

Cut 13 (09) “…of Louisiana”

Construction on I-10 from I-49 to the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge started in 2017 and is expected to be completed next year. Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says 70-thousand motorists travel this stretch of I-10 daily and by 2035, the number of vehicles is expected to increase to over 105-thousand daily…

Cut 14 (09) “…this system”

A Louisiana case went before the US Supreme Court today challenging non-unanimous jury convictions. Matt Doyle reports the ruling could have wide-ranging impacts on the nation’s legal system.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

_____________________________

The latest polling data shows Governor Edwards is likely to enter a run-off with Eddie Rispone. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut  2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

________________________________________

The US Supreme Court heard oral arguments today in a case questioning the constitutionality of non-unanimous jury verdicts. Louisianans voted to require unanimous juries in felony trials last year.  Loyola University Law Professor Dane Ciolino says depending on how the court rules, those convicted on a 10-2 or 11-1 verdict could have their life sentenced thrown out…

Cut 3 (08) “…convictions.”

Oregon is the only state to not require unanimous jury verdicts in felony trials.

The case being heard involves the non-unanimous murder conviction and life sentencing of Evangelisto Ramos in 2015. Ciolino says a favorable ruling would give inmates like Ramos a second chance.

Cut 4 (10) “…trials”

Only 10 of 12 jurors voted to convict Ramos.

Ciolino says this case has the potential to have a huge impact on the nation’s legal system outside of just unanimous juries.

Cut 5 (10) “…Government.”

_________________________________________

New polling data on the governor’s race shows John Bel Edwards at 45 percent, Eddie Rispone at 20 percent, Ralph Abraham at 19 percent, and 14 percent are undecided. JMC Analytics pollster John Couvillon says over 374,000 voters cast ballots in early voting, and the breakdowns show Edwards may not be able to avoid a run-off.

Cut 6 (11) “…for Governor Edwards.”

Couvillon says there is a 30 percent chance of Governor Edwards winning the election without a run-off, but if a run-off happens, it will likely be with Rispone as on the local level polling, Abraham’s support is seeing a decrease since September.

Cut 7 (10) “…I have not.” 

Couvillon calls Abraham’s touting of politician endorsements outdated and a reason he’s fallen into third place.

Cut 8 (09) “…a winning message.”

Just over 12 percent of registered voters cast their ballots with early voting. Election Day is Saturday.

______________________________

State Police has identified the 16-year-old bicyclist killed last night in St. Landry Parish. Trooper Thomas Gossen says Lane Leger of Opelousas was riding his bike after the sun went down without lights on the I-49 North Service Road

Cut 9 (10) “the case”

Gossen says Leger was hit from behind by a Nissan Altima. He says the driver of the vehicle did not see the bicyclist and is not facing any charges

Cut 10 (07) “…present”

Gossen says this part of the service road is not lit well and the bicyclist should have had a light on his bicycle and ride as near to the right side of the roadway as practicable

Cut 11 (06) “a car” 

____________________________

Even without Drew Brees, the Saints look like one of the best teams in the NFL as they are 4-and-1 following a 31-24 win over Tampa Bay on Sunday. The Black and Gold’s defense has been solid and got six more sacks yesterday. Defensive end Cam Jordan says it was fun to see…

Cut 12 (13) “…offensive line”

Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas continues to show why he was worth the big contract in the offseason as he caught 11 passes for 182 yards. But Thomas says it’s been the defense that has been setting the tone

Cut 13 (10) “…over there”

Linebacker Demario Davis says stopping the run on first down has been the key…

Cut 14 (12) “…to us”

President Trump makes a trip on Friday to Louisiana, but he won’t be the only Trump family member to visit the Bayou state this week.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

_____________________________

The governor’s race may be soaking up most of the oxygen but downballot the campaign for Insurance Commisioner is tight as we enter the final week of the campaign…

Cut 2 (31) “…I’m Matt Doyle” 

________________________

ESPN’s College GameDay will be in Baton Four for Saturday night’s SEC Top 10 showdown between the fighting Tigers and the Florida Gators. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

________________________

President Trump visits Louisiana Friday, but his son Don Trump, Jr. will be part of a rally in Lafayette today.  UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross says those close to the President are stepping up efforts to unseat Gov. Edwards.

Cut 4 (09) “…the same effect.”

Cross says the sons and daughters of this President are more effective in leading political influence than those of other administrations.

Cut 5 (11) “…see these people.”

Cross says while the message from nationally prominent GOP figures would be a less divided message by endorsing one candidate, the political influence to vote against Edwards is still strong.

Cut 6 (13) “…vote against him.”

The event begins at noon at the Cajundome Convention Center.  The visit from Trump, Jr. comes following a weekend rally attended by Vice President Pence in Kenner.

____________________

We’re less than a week from the primary and the race for Insurance Commissioner could go either way with a recent independent poll showing most voters have yet to make up their mind.

Incumbent Jim Donelon has been blasted on the airwaves by attack ads, including one showing Donelon nodding off at some kind of public hearing. The narrator calls him “asleep at the wheel”…

Cut 7 (08) “fact.” 

That’s Donelon who says one look at his monthly schedule would assuage any concerns about his work ethic.

Donelon has served in the position since 2006 and says if re-elected he’ll continue fighting to get laws passed that will continue to drag down insurance rates.

Cut 8 (06) “…level

Opponent and fellow Republican Tim Temple has sunk over a million dollars of his own money into the campaign. He says Donelon has been exaggerating recent rate decreases.

Cut 9 (12)  “…policy”

Temple says the state’s second-highest in the nation car insurance rates is unacceptable and punishes working families and the companies that employ them.

Cut 10 (08) “…Louisiana”

______________________________

If you’ve been looking for a break from the heat, today is your lucky day.  A long-awaited cold front arrives today. State Climatologist Barry Keim says our first cold front of fall is coming later than normal.

Cut 11 (09) “…be much welcomed.” 

Keim says northern parishes will see high temps only hit the upper 70’s.

Cut 12 (09) “…not this week.”

Keim says tomorrow morning lows will be in the 50’s in northern parishes, 60’s in central parishes, and 70’s along the coast.

Cut 13 (09) “…beautiful weekend weather.”

__________________________________

Food Stamp benefits are going up about two to four dollars a month for Louisiana recipients thanks to a national cost of living readjustment.

Department of Children and Family Services Economic Stability Director Kim Matherne says it’s part of the yearly change to the program, and how much more you’ll receive is based on your household’s size.

Cut 14 (10) “dollars.” 

The minimum allotment has also risen from 15 to 16 dollars.

The gross monthly income limit for eligibility has also increased. Matherne says single individuals can earn up to 1,354 dollars a month, while four-person households can pull in 2,790 dollars a month.

Cut 15 (09) “…slightly”

That’s roughly thirty dollars higher than last year.

________________________

The Saints improved to 4-1 on the season and 3-0 with Teddy Bridgewater as their starting quarterback as New Orleans topped Tampa Bay 31-24. Bridgewater threw an interception in the first half, but he was nearly perfect after that as he threw for 314 yards and four touchdowns. Coach Sean Payton says it was good to see…

Cut 16  (14) “  he played” 

Eleven of Bridgewater’s completions went to wide receiver Michael Thomas, who finished 182 yards receiving and two touchdowns. Bridgewater targeted Thomas 13 times

cut 17  (20) “…for a quarterback” 

The Saints defense was also very good in this game as they held the Bucs to 3-of-11 on third down, 252 total yards and had six sacks. Bridgewater says this Saints team has a lot of talent and great chemistry…

Cut 18 (20) more and more” 

________________________________

5th ranked LSU finished off the non-conference portion of its schedule with a dominating 42-6 win over Utah State. Tigers Quarterback Joe Burrow threw for 344 yards and five T-Ds as LSU rolled up 601 yards of offense, while the defense gave up just 159 yards. Coach Ed Orgeron says it was their most complete game of the season

cut 19 (19)   “unbelieveable”   

Junior wide receiver Justin Jefferson had another huge game with nine catches for 155 yards and two touchdowns. Jefferson and the Tigers are 5-0 for a second consecutive season…

cut 20 (14) “our own game”   

Some of the 376 steel mill workers left without a job after this week’s closure of Bayou Steel in LaPlace now have legal representation.  Kevin Barnhart has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________________

The latest finance reports are in for the governor’s race. UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross broke down the numbers with Matt Doyle…

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

________________________________________

An attorney representing some of the steel mill workers laid off by Bayou Steel in LaPlace this week is questioning whether the company complied with federal law when notifying workers of the layoffs. Attorney Brent Barriere says employees were blindsided by the mass layoff.

Cut 3 (13) “…60 days of pay.”

Barriere says he’s also working to have the bankruptcy case moved from Delaware to New Orleans.

Cut 4 (12) “…receiving a paycheck.”

The company owed more than $20 million to creditors upon filing bankruptcy. Barriere says there has been no indication by ownership or management that the company intends to fulfill its financial obligations to employees.

Cut 5 (07) “…and the like.”

The closure led to 376 being left without a job. St. John Parish is expected to lose about $1 million annually in tax revenue because of the closure.

_________________________________________

The latest finance reports are in and Governor Edwards has 3.1 million on hand, followed by Eddie Rispone at 2.7 million, and Ralph Abraham at 318,000.

Edwards continues to lap his opponents in fundraising, outraising Rispone and Abraham in the last period by a combined 574,000 dollars. UL Lafayette Poli Sci Professor Pearson Cross…

Cut 6 (09) “…through”

Independent polls show Edwards close to avoiding a run-off.

Rispone spent a remarkable 3.5 million dollars during the last period from September 3rd to the 22nd on an ad blitz that independent polls show have put him in second place. Cross says the self-funding businessman has little choice.

Cut 7 (07) “…bet” 

Abraham’s fundraising woes continue, and the Congressman has had to loan his campaign 300,000 dollars to stay afloat. Cross says Abraham just has to get into a run-off to end his financing issues.

Cut 8 (07) “…come in”

The Abraham campaign raised 194,000 dollars during the last period.

______________________________

A Memorandum of Understanding signed at Fibrebond’s headquarters in Minden this morning will result in road improvements in the area to keep the  Webster Parish manufacturer in northwest Louisiana. Fibrebond CEO Graham Walker says they have been fighting to stay

Cut 9 (11) “northwest Louisiana”

Because of deficient roads and bridges, Fibrebond is forced to travel many extra miles to ship their products out west. The state transportation department has agreed to replace eight bridges in the region and construct a heavy-haul route from Minden to Texas. Walker credits Governor Edwards for finding solutions

Cut 10 (11) “…other opportunities.”

Fibrebond builds structures that protect data centers in the telecommunications industry. The M-O-U will also result in the state spending 250-thousand dollars to upgrade high-demand technical college training programs. Edwards says these improvements will benefit local communities and major employers

Cut 11 (08) “to come” 

____________________________

The Attorney General’s office announces 21 people have been arrested in Louisiana as part of a National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The director of Medicaid Fraud in the A-G’s office, Jody LeJeune, says numerous federal and state agencies work together to fight health care fraud

Cut 12 (09) “…for everyone”

The ages of those arrested range from 20-year-old Athena Mitchell of Shreveport to 57-year-old Shelia Dixon. LeJeune says the majority of those arrested are suspected of billing for services that were not provided or billing for services at a higher level that was actually provided…

Cut 13 (08) “…population”

LeJeune says if you suspect Medicaid fraud, call 1-888-799-6885 or provide a tip on the A-G Jeff Landry-dot-com…

Cut 14 (10) “…hotline”

A West Monroe woman is in jail after pistol-whipping her husband with their children’s toys. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

________________________________

There are multiple reports of a man impersonating a police officer, who is pulling over women on Louisiana and Mississippi Highways. Matt Doyle has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”  

________________________________________

A West Monroe woman pistol whips her husband with two plastic nerf guns following a verbal altercation where the she accused her spouse of infidelity.  Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s spokesman Glenn Springfield says they received the call or a domestic altercation from the victim late Monday evening.

Cut 3 (10) “…and facial area.”

Springfield says deputies arrested 40-year-old Anh Thi Pham.  The suspect and the victim have been married for twelve years and their four children were at home at the time of the incident.

Cut 4 (11) “…and child endangerment.”

The nerf guns were not discharged during the attack.  Springfield says regardless of the weaponry used, the consequences for the suspect’s actions are no laughing matter.

Cut 5 (06) “…in being arrested.”

_________________________________________

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is reminding hunters of the importance of tree stand safety. LDWF Hunter Education manager Eric Shanks says a good start is inspecting the functionality of equipment before putting it to use.

Cut 6 (11) “…to replace it.”

35% of falls involve inspection elements. Shanks adds it is important to stay connected to the tree with a proper harness from the time your feet leave the ground.

Cut 7 (10) “…the whole time.” 

86% of fall victims did not wear a harness. Shanks says someone may have gotten away unscathed without taking proper safety precautions, but there is no reason to test fate.

Cut 8 (08) “…in one piece.”

For more information, go to TREE-STAND-SAFETY-AWARENESS-dot-ORG.

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Republicans appear to be far more motivated to pack the polls this year than they were in 2015, according to an analysis of the first three days of early voting.

Early voting totals are nearly double what they were four years ago, and JMC Analytics publisher John Couvillon says it’s far more Republican as well.

Cut 9 (09) “night”

In 2015 Governor Edwards grabbed 40 percent of the primary vote, while the top three Republicans combined for 57 percent.

Couvillon says if these voter demographics hold Governor Edwards will not be able to avoid a run-off, contrary to what recent polls have shown.

Cut 10 (11) “…mid 40s.”

JMC’s most recent poll has Edwards sitting at 47 percent.

Couvillon says part of the GOP advantage seems to be a demotivated Democratic base. He says that’s likely due to Edwards’ attempts to appeal to Republicans and a heavy emphasis on winning the primary outright.

Cut 11 (10) “the need” 

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There’s now three reports of a white male in his 40s allegedly impersonating a police officer and pulling over women on Louisiana and Mississippi highways.

One incident occurred over the weekend near the Bonnet Carre Spillway. St. Charles Parish Sheriff Captain Donnie Smith says the woman was pulled over by a black charger flashing blue and red lights.

Cut 12 (11) “…out”

Smith says after pulling the woman over the man allegedly told her he smelled marijuana in the car and demanded she exit the vehicle, then took her to the rear of the car.

Cut 13 (12) “…search”

The woman says after she began expressing concern that the man was not an officer, he got in his vehicle and fled.

The man was described as a medium build, with a generic looking badge and a Chinese symbol tattooed on the back of his neck. Smith says the suspect allegedly put a lot of effort into looking legitimate.

Cut 14 (12) “…chord”

Incidents have been reported in St. Charles Parish, East Feliciana Parish, and Wilkinson County Mississippi.

East Feliciana Chief Criminal Deputy Greg Phares says if you get pulled over, but are concerned it’s not a real officer, it’s legal to calmly make your way to a public space before interacting.

Cut 15 (07) “…safety.”

Phares also advises you call 9-1-1 and have a dispatcher confirm whether or not the car is an officer.

The state’s murder rate is down eight percent but still good for the highest in the nation, while the violent crime rate dropped three percent. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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If you thought September was hot, you were not wrong. It was one for the record books. Brook Thorington has the story.

cut  2 (30) “…I’m Brooke Thorington”  

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Violent crime in Louisiana was down three percent year to year in 2018, and the murder rate is down down eight points according to new FBI crime data.

LSU Health New Orleans Criminologist Peter Sharf says the murder rate decline is largely thanks to an 8 percent drop in the Crescent City.

Cut 3 (10) “…elsewhere”

2019’s murder rate decrease maybe even more dramatic as Sharf says New Orleans appears set to see a nearly 30 percent drop in violent crime this year.

Sharf credits reinvestment from the criminal justice reform, new crime prevention programs in New Orleans, and statewide adoption of 21st-century police training programs.

Cut 4 (12) “…occur”

The state also saw a three percent decrease in property crime.

Despite the good news Louisiana still leads the nation with the highest murder rate, and Sharf says our murder rate is roughly ten times that of New York’s. He says there’s a lot of work to be done.

Cut 5 (10) “…society”

Nationwide the violent crime rate was also down three percent.

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Ruston’s recovery from last April’s deadly EF-3 tornado has stalled due to the wait for FEMA assistance reimbursement. Mayor Ronny Walker says debris was removed and power restored in the days after the twister, but recovery efforts are going slower than desired now.

Cut 6 (13) “…it goes through.”

The city owns its own power distribution and dipped into reserve funds to restore electricity within four days.  Walker says it was much quicker than the initially anticipated two weeks.

Cut 7 (10) “…back up also.” 

Five miles of the city’s fiber network had to be replaced.  Walker says they are punching the numbers on the FEMA reimbursement.

Cut 8 (07) “…from FEMA.”

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Last month was the warmest September on record for the state dating back to 1895.  State climatologist Barry Keim says after calculating a preliminary value for the entire state, the state exceeded the previous record by half a degree.

Cut 9 (11) “…we were 82.6.”

Keim says a city-by-city breakdown shows it was hot.

Cut 10 (13) “…state wide phenomena.”

Keim credits the heat spike to a lack of cold front activity.

Cut 11 (09) “…lack of rain.” 

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A new law signed in California will allow college athletes to hire agents and make money from the use of their image, name or likeness, starting in 2023.  LSU QB Joe Burrow says he believes it is a step in the right direction for athletes.

Cut 12 (10) “…the other way.”

California is the first state to pass a law that defies the NCAA’s stance on compensation for amateur athletes.  Burrow says it will be interesting to see if it sways recruits, but he’s unsure if it would have influenced his decision in recruiting.

Cut 13 (07) “…think about.”

Burrow was asked about how the compensation could be possibly spread to the offensive linemen who may not have the same name recognition but contribute to a QB’s performance.

Cut 14 (10) “…about that later.”