Will there be a live tiger on the field ahead of LSU’s game against Alabama? That’s the word coming out of Baton Rouge – but not from the school. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Voters overwhelmingly approve a state constitutional amendment to direct revenue from alternative energy sources to coastal restoration. Now, as Colleen Crain reports, the ball is in the hands of the federal government.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The 2024 LPIC Parent Poll is live til November 20 to get feedback from Parent, Guardians, and Caregivers for children 5-year-old and younger.  Sena Richardson has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The university is so far tight-lipped about it, but there are reports that LSU will have a live tiger on the field for tomorrow night’s game against Alabama. Todd Horne from Tiger Rag magazine says the governor has been pushing for this for months.

Cut 4 (09) “…LSU home games.”

Horne says while Landry has been negotiating with the university on how to make this happen, it’s unclear whether this is the result of those talks or whether he’s doing this unilaterally. Our news partner, the Louisiana Illuminator, was the first to report the story, citing an interview it did with a state senator.

Cut 5 (09) “…at the game.” (Refers to Ponchatoula Republican Senator Bill Wheat)

However, the tiger will not be LSU’s official live mascot, Mike the Seventh. Instead, it will be a tiger being driven in from out of state – reportedly a one-and-a-half-year-old Bengal tiger owned by a man near Orlando, Florida. Horne says rolling out a live tiger onto the field was a long-standing tradition at Death Valley until it was halted back in 2015.

Cut 6 (10) “…on the sideline.”

Mike the Seventh lives in a 15-thousand-square-foot habitat just outside the stadium and has never taken the field inside the stadium. Landry originally wanted Mike to take the field, but the school has pushed back on that. Repeated efforts to reach LSU for confirmation, including media relations, the athletic department, the school of veterinary medicine and even the president’s office, have been unsuccessful.

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Voters overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment to direct revenues from alternate offshore energy sources to coastal restoration. Simone Maloz (mih-LAWZ), the campaign director for Restore the Mississippi River Delta, says it expands the offshore revenue sources currently used for coastal restoration beyond the traditional oil and gas.

Cut 7 (08) “…other energy uses.”

Maloz is very grateful that the vote to approve the amendment was by almost a three-to-one spread.

Cut 8 (11) “…good to see.”

But despite the passage of the constitutional amendment, Maloz says the job is not done yet.

Cut 9 (08)  “…to those parishes.” (A federal law needs to be passed to direct that money to the coastal parishes)

But Maloz says the overwhelming vote should give the federal government more reason to approve such a measure.

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LPIC and the Department of Education invite parents, guardians, and caregivers of children 5-years old and under to share their experience with early childhood education in the state.  The 2024 Parent Poll is live and LPIC CEO Libbie Sonnier says the poll helps them understand how parents are navigating and accessing quality childcare.

Cut 10 (11) “…family is childcare.”

Sonnier says the poll is a powerful tool to understand how parents are navigating childcare and what are expenses related to childcare.

Cut 11 (12) “…what they need.”

The poll is live until Nov 20 and available in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese so it can capture a wide variety of family experiences throughout the state.  Sonnier says the goal is to understand what barriers parents are experiencing and allow all parents to access quality childcare.

Cut 12 (13) “…much much more.” 

Visit policy-institute-dot-org for more information.

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The election was three days ago; and while we know that Donald Trump will be the new president and that Republicans will take control of the Senate, we still don’t know which party will be in control of the House. Democratic Congressman Troy Carter of New Orleans says whether his party is in the majority or the minority does not alter the job.

Cut 13 (15)  “…all Americans.”

Carter says it’s time to turn the page.

Cut 14 (10) “…job of governing.”

And Carter says that involves members of both parties to come together to work out solutions in the best interest of all Americans.

Cut 15 (09) “…the American people.”

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LSU will host Alabama and they are hoping to avoid a repeat performance of what happened last year when Crimson Tide quarterback Jalen Milroe threw for 219 yards and rushed for 155 yards and four touchdowns. Defensive end Sai’vion Jones says they have to be smart when they rush Milroe…

Cut 16 (17) “….what kind of plays so.” 

We know Nick Saban will not be on the Alabama sideline for Saturday night’s game. Coach Brian Kelly was asked how the Crimson Tide are different with Saban no longer roaming the sidelines and Kalen DeBoer at the helm

Cut 17 (12) “…team.”

The Tigers defense is looking to bounce back after giving up 31 points against Texas A-and-M. Linebacker Greg Penn says all you can do is learn from the experience and make sure it doesn’t happen again…

Cut 18 (14)   “…right now.”

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ULM will try to snap a two-game losing streak tomorrow when they host Texas State. Warhawks Coach Bryant Vincent has this message for his team this week…

Cut 19 (14) “…11 o’ clock kick”  

Vincent also had to discipline offensive line coach Cameron Blakenship for shoving a player in a fit of rage. Vincent says that’s what the ULM football program is all about…

Cut 20 (19) “…as the players do.”

Debate is underway at the State Capitol on Governor Jeff Landry’s tax plan. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Louisiana has never had a hurricane make landfall in the month of November – and it looks like at least for the time being, that record will remain intact. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The U.S. political landscape remains in flux as the House of Representatives awaits resolution, but  President-Elect Donald Trump holds a strong mandate and influence over the Republican-controlled Senate. With the GOP’s majority in the Senate, Republican U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy is positioned to chair the Health, Education, Labor, and Pension (HELP) committee. Cassidy says even with control of the Senate, they will still need to reach across the aisle…

Cut 3 (11) “…than the minority.” 

Additionally, Cassidy will play a significant role in tax policy and trade, potentially impacting both domestic economic policies and international trade relations.

Cut 4 (09) “…achieve their goals.”

As a senior Republican, Cassidy is also part of a bipartisan committee focused on developing family leave policies, reflecting the growing demand for more comprehensive family support systems. Cassidy says this committee aims to bridge the gap between parties on key issues affecting American families, balancing economic growth and workers’ rights.

Cut 5 (12) “…see it get done.”

With these leadership roles, Cassidy says he’s ready to influence multiple areas that affect everyday Americans.

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Lawmakers have until November 25th to consider Governor Landry’s tax overhaul proposal in this special legislative session. Chalmette Representative Mike Bayham says given the complexity of the proposal and all of its components, that likely will not be enough time to consider everything.

Cut 6 (07) “…in the state.”

Even though the Republican Landry is making his pitch to a Republican supermajority in both houses of the legislature, it’s not a slam-dunk that he will get everything he’s asking for. Bayham notes that some aspects will require a rewrite of the state constitution; and as such, the voters will have the final say.

Cut 7 (09) “…say in this.”

One component of Landry’s proposal is to make optional the inventory tax – taxes imposed on companies on their inventory stockpiles. Bayham notes that many parishes rely on that inventory tax to provide essential services, such as schools and police.

Cut 8 (17) “…middle class people.”

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Debate is underway at the State Capitol on Governor Jeff Landry’s tax plan that seeks to lower income taxes for all workers but sales taxes would be added to 41 activities currently not taxed. Landry went before the House Ways and Means Committee today, urging them to pass his plan…

Cut 9 (12)  “…this state.”

But during discussion on a bill to create a flat three-percent income tax, State Representative Matthew Williard, a Democrat from New Orleans, says Landry’s plan does not provide substantial tax savings for low-income workers…

Cut 10 (14) “…a year.”

Louisiana Revenue Secretary Richard Nelson countered Williard’s argument by saying the proposed tax changes would improve the state’s economy if enacted as it will attract more jobs to Louisiana…

Cut 11 (08) “…see that.”

Williard is also concerned Landry’s tax plan will result in less available tax dollars for the state to spend. He’s concerned about future tax cuts…

Cut 12 (16) “…deal with.”

The House Ways and Means Committee approved the bill to reduce the personal income taxes on a 15 to 3 vote. The measure could go before House Appropriations, before a vote on the House floor.

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It looks like Louisiana’s record of never having a hurricane making landfall in the state in the month of November will remain intact, at least for the time being. Earlier this week, the National Hurricane Center had Hurricane Rafael turning north in the Gulf of Mexico and straight towards Louisiana, albeit weakening to below hurricane strength. But LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says the forecast track has done a complete 180, now headed towards the Bay of Campeche in Mexico.

Cut 13 (11)  “…steering currents whatsoever (2x).”

Keim says while forecast tracks are always subject to change, it’s highly unusual for a track to change as drastically as that of Rafael.

Cut 14 (19) “…southwesterly, we think.”

Keim says there’s still great uncertainty where the storm will ultimately go, if anywhere at all.

Cut 15 (17) “…into this storm.”

It now appears that Louisiana will not be impacted by Hurricane Rafael at all. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (29) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Today U-S markets rose as Donald Trump’s win will return him to the presidency, marking a major rebound from his 2020 loss.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A two and a half weeklong special session on tax reform gets underway this afternoon as Governor Jeff Landry is asking legislators to make sweeping changes to the state’s tax code. La-Politics-dot-com Jeremy Alford says tax reform has been a buzz word at the capitol for decades, so it’s monumental to a session devoted to it

Cut 3 (09) “…pretty big push.” 

He wants to lower the state income tax for most Louisiana residents, but also expand the sales tax base and eliminate dozens of sales tax exemptions. Alford says the Louisiana Senate could push back on the some of the governor’s proposals…

Cut 4 (08) “…this entire process.”

Not only does Governor Landry want to create a flat income tax rate, he’s also asking legislators to raise the standard deduction to $12,500 and eliminate the corporate franchise tax. But he’s also looking to renew a temporary .45 percent sales tax, extending the sales tax to 40 activities that are untaxed and eliminating the film tax credit program. Alford says it will be interesting to see if Landry gets what he wants…

Cut 5 (05) “…Jeff Landry.”

The special session must end by 5 PM on November 25th.

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It looks like Louisiana may be spared the brunt of Hurricane Rafael’s wrath. The National Hurricane Center now says Rafael will head towards the Texas-Mexico coast after striking Cuba. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says Rafael will enter the gulf sometime tonight likely as a Category Two hurricane.

Cut 6 (10) “…very slow decline.”

The original forecast track had Rafael turning north and heading straight towards Louisiana. But Keim says that has now changed.

Cut 7 (15) “…a northwesterly track.”

And that will keep the storm considerably south of Louisiana, possibly eliminating any potential impacts. Keim says as such, it likely will not impact Saturday’s LSU game.

Cut 8 (13) “…of anybody’s guess”

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U-S financial markets surged today with Donald Trump’s win in the Presidential race. Dent Wealth Advisors Founder Fred Dent expects this to be brief bump….

Cut 9 (13)  “…euphoria will dissipate.”

Trump’s win kept sectors tied to his policies, with financials, energy, and industrial stocks seeing strong gains. Market volatility dropped to its lowest since September, reflecting relief over a clear election outcome. Tesla’s stock jumped as CEO Elon Musk expressed support for Trump. Dent says Bitcoin and the dollar both look solid.

Cut 10 (05) “…dollar is very strong.”

Dent says the focus now shifts to Trump inheriting a robust economy that is robust, and inflation is back to around the 2-percent range, and what tariffs he will enforce…

Cut 11 (12) “…consumer pricing.”

Meanwhile, renewable energy stocks declined amid uncertainty over continued federal support.

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The first college football playoff rankings of the season are out and LSU is ranked 15^th. With 12 teams set to make the playoffs this year, the Fighting Tigers have more work to do in order to be in the new 12-team C-F-P playoff. Coach Brian Kelly says there’s a month left in the regular season and a lot can change…

Cut 12 (12) “…the gates.”

LSU can show it deserves to be in the College Football Playoff by beating Alabama on Saturday night and then winning its final three games on the schedule. Kelly says it’s good to be in contention

Cut 13 (12)  “…of the season.”

LSU hosts Alabama on Saturday in Tiger Stadium. The Crimson Tide are ranked 11th in the CFP. College football analysts are calling it a playoff elimination game. Kelly says the teams at the top of the SEC standings understand what’s at stake…

Cut 14 (10) “…matter.”

Kick-off is at 6:30 on Saturday.

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Cleo Fields is headed back to Washington. He won the District 6 seat outright last night with more than 50-percent of the vote. During his watch party, the Democrat said he’s ready to get to work for the people of the district, who he says have some very important needs.

Cut 15 (15) “…so many people.”

Fields will take his seat as the Supreme Court gets ready to hear a legal challenge to the district’s lines, which were drawn in a way that created a second majority Black district in the state. Fields says he’s not concerned, saying he’s confident that the district as currently drawn will stand as is.

Cut 16 (12) “….based on politics.” 

Fields will take over for Republican Garret Graves, who declined to seek re-election after the district was redrawn. Whether the flipping of the seat will result in Democrats gaining control of the House remains to be seen.

The most closely watched federal race in the state is the one for the newly-redrawn 6th Congressional District. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (50) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The Saints have fired head coach Dennis Allen after the team suffered its seventh straight loss. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Louisiana voters will go to the polls tomorrow to elect a new Congressman in the newly drawn sixth district, which cuts a diagonal line through the state from Baton Rouge to Shreveport. It’s the state’s second majority-Black district. All five candidates for the seat are Black, including Democrats Cleo Fields and Quentin Anderson and Republican Elbert Guillory. Fields is a current state senator and served in Congress in the 1990s. Fields says one of his priorities is to increase the minimum wage.

Cut 3 (07) “…that they do.”

Fields says early childhood education will be another of his main priorities.

Cut 4 (06) “…care about education.”

Anderson has never previously held elected office. He echoed Fields’ call to boost the minimum wage.

Cut 5 (07) “…even more so.”

Anderson said another of his priorities is addressing crime that’s rampant in the two major cities in the district, saying that it goes beyond policing.

Cut 6 (10) “…nothing to lose.”

Guillory is the lone Republican running in the race and had previously served in both the Louisiana House of Representatives and the Louisiana Senate. He also said public safety is one of his top priorities, along with education.

Cut 7 (09) “…an illiterate society.”

Guillory also said he would work to keep American dollars in America and to cut down on foreign spending.

Cut 8 (15) “…food and medicine.”

The other two Democrats on the ballot are Wilken Jones and Peter Williams. The redrawing of the district by a federal judge’s order led to Republican incumbent Garret Graves declining to run for re-election.

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After their seventh straight loss, the Saints have fired Head Coach Dennis Allen. It comes one day after the Saints lost to the Panthers in Carolina, 23-22. Ross Jackson, the Saints’ beat writer for Louisiana Sports-dot-net, says the Saints needed to make, saying the team had many negative firsts yesterday.

Cut 9 (10)  “…in the NFL.”

Special Teams Coordinator Darren Rizzi has been named interim head coach, and Jackson says that’s the right move.

Cut 10 (12) “…your young players.”

Jackson says depending on how well Rizzi does in the final eight weeks of the season, he may be considered for the full-time head coaching position in the off-season. Other names Jackson mentioned include Lions Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson and Vikings Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores. On WWL Radio, former Saints running back Deuce McAllister says Allen was not clicking with the team.

Cut 11 (08) “…over and over.”

Allen ends his tenure with the Saints with a record of 18-25 in two and a half seasons, missing the playoffs in 2022 and 203. 

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Tropical Depression 18 has formed south of Jamaica, and it’s expected to become Rafael as it moves northwest towards the Gulf of Mexico. By mid-week, it may reach Category 1 hurricane status as it nears Cuba. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says a storm in November is rare…

Cut 12 (07) “…almost unheard of.”

However, its potential impact on the Gulf Coast remains uncertain. While the system could maintain strength as a tropical storm or low-end Category 1 hurricane, Keim says factors like drier air and wind shear in the Gulf of Mexico could weaken it upon entry.

Cut 13 (06)  “…increasing intensity.”

Southeast Louisiana is the cone of uncertainty. But the system is expected to weaken or might even dissipate before reaching the coast. But Keim says there’s the potential for rain and breezy conditions for Saturday night”s Bama-LSU game.

Cut 14 (07) “…play football.”

Tomorrow is Election Day, and both major political parties are pulling out all the stops in getting the vote out. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Today is the start of the three day inaugural Louisiana State Marching Band Championship at McNeese State University in Lake Charles.  Sean Richardson has the story.

Cut 2 (36) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge is conducting a study designed to help women at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Colleen Crain has the details…

Cut 3 (36) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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With just hours to go before voters go to the polls, both political parties in Louisiana are pulling out the stops in getting out the vote. State Republican Party Chairman Cory Dennis says if early voting is any indication, Election Day should be a good day for the G-O-P in the state.

Cut 4 (09) “…for Donald Trump.”

Dennis says if 2020 taught us anything, it’s that every vote counts.

Cut 5 (08) “…across the country.”

Former Governor John Bel Edwards rallied Democrats at the state party headquarters in Baton Rouge.

Cut 6 (14) “…Kamala Harris. (applause)”

Edwards said there will be at least one bit of good news for Democrats coming out of Louisiana in this election.

Cut 7 (13) “…promise you that. (applause).”

Opinion polls show that no federal race in Louisiana is competitive. Donald Trump is almost guaranteed to carry the state, and as Governor Edwards just alluded to, Democrats are a near lock to flip the redrawn Sixth Congressional District. The state’s five other House seats are almost certain to remain with their current political parties.

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The inaugural Louisiana State Marching Band Championship begins today at McNeese State University’s Cowboy Stadium in Lake Charles and will continue through Wednesday. Featuring 69 high school bands and nearly 6,500 student performers, Louisiana Music Educators Association President Lee Hicks says the people of Lake Charles have been amazing…

Cut 8 (06) “…help us out.”

Bands will perform in scheduled slots, with warm-up areas assigned. Judging criteria include Music General Effect, Visual Performance, and specialized categories for Percussion and Auxiliary. Hicks says it all comes down to one performance.

Cut 9 (11)  “…one shot to nail it.”

Hicks says the event provides a high-profile platform for Louisiana’s top high school bands to demonstrate their skill, creativity, and school spirit in a competitive arena.

Cut 10 (07) “…seeing how it goes.”

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LSU Shreveport (LSUS) celebrates record-breaking enrollment for the second consecutive semester, reaching 10,851 students in Fall 2024—an 11% increase from Fall 2023 and over 24% growth from Fall 2022. This milestone marks continued growth in both undergraduate and graduate populations, with LSUS surpassing 10,000 students for the first time in Spring 2024. Chancellor Dr. Robert Smith credits faculty and staff for their commitment to recruiting and retaining students…

Cut 11 (11) “…our students.”

Graduate programs are particularly popular, with a record 8,118 enrolled, reflecting a 13% rise from the previous fall.  Undergraduate numbers are also on the rise, with 2,733 students—the highest since pre-pandemic levels. Smith says that includes face to face and online enrollment…

Cut 12 (12) “…every way you can think. 

LSUS ranks highest in Louisiana on the Economic Mobility Index, highlighting its role in helping low-income students secure well-paying jobs and improve socioeconomic status.

Cut 13 (09)  “…in this economy.” 

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Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge is conducting The Sweet Study involving the medication, Ozempic. It’s designed to help women at high risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Scientific Research Director, Dr. Elizabeth Sutton, says most people don’t know they’re at risk for developing diabetes and women who have experienced gestational diabetes are at much greater risk…

Cut 14 (09) “…in your life.”

Women who meet the study’s criteria and complete it will earn $1000 for their participation. Sutton says most people are unaware they have prediabetes, which is one of the qualifying conditions, but the study offers free screening tests for it. Sutton describes the rest of the criteria…

Cut 15 (11) “…in the last ten years.”

Half the participants receive Ozempic during the study, and the other half get a placebo. It includes women from all over Louisiana. Those who pass a phone screening will visit Woman’s in Baton Rouge for in-person screening tests. If those tests and questions qualify her, Sutton says the participant will come back for baseline testing then…

Cut 16 (11)   “…with your medicine.”

Sutton says it’s easy to apply for the study. Either visit “womans dot org slash research” and click the Sweet Study link or you can call or text 225-421-9185.

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The Saints’ losing streak is now seven after losing to one of the worst teams in the NFL. The Carolina Panthers scored a late touchdown in the fourth quarter to beat New Orleans 23 to 22. Coach Dennis Allen was hoping the return of starting quarterback Derek Carr would propel the Black and Gold to a much-needed win.

Cut 17 (20) “…advantage of them.”

New Orleans will try to end the losing streak this Sunday at home against Atlanta. Allen’s seat is also getting hot as the calls for him to get fired are getting louder. Allen was asked how they can end this losing streak

Cut 18 (17)   “…stand up and fight”

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ULM could not hang on to a three-point lead in the fourth quarter and lost to Marshall 28 to 23. After starting 5-and-1, the Warhawks now have a two-game losing streak. Coach Bryant Vincent expects his team to keep grinding…

Cut 19 (19) “….uncommon.”  

ULM will host Texas State this Saturday.

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Southeastern Louisiana rallied late to beat Lamar in overtime 30 to 27. After starting 1-and-4, the Lions are now 5-and-5 and Coach Frank Scelfo says the FCS playoff selection should take notice…

Cut 20 (14) “..played.”

The Lions host Northwestern State this Saturday and S-L-U closes out the regular season November 21st against Nicholls.

It’s the first day of Open Enrollment, and Louisiana residents looking for affordable coverage have new options. Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (31) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Louisiana’s Sixth Congressional District could have a major impact on who has control of the U-S House. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Louisiana Book Festival returns to downtown Baton Rouge for its 20th year tomorrow. Robert Wilson, the assistant director of the Louisiana Center for the Book, says there will be something for everyone.

Cut 3 (12) “…as academic titles.”

Events will be held in the State Capitol, the State Library, the Capitol Park Museum and in tents on neighboring streets. Wilson says there will be scores of authors and presenters on hand.

Cut 4 (08) “…following their programs.” (More than 200 authors and presenters will be on hand.)

In addition, there will be cooking demonstrations. Wilson says the book festival is a family-friendly event.

Cut 5 (07) “…look for lunch.”

The event tomorrow is from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m., and admission is free.

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Annual enrollment for healthcare.gov begins today. Louisiana Blue Chief Healthcare Economist Mike Bertaut  says if you do not have affordable health insurance through an employer, or you’re losing Medicaid or you need to get covered, look at options on HealthCare.gov. He says enrollment is through January 15…

Cut 6 (07) “…by December 15.”

Bertaut says Louisiana Blue, the state’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield provider, offers HMO plans with the state’s lowest rates available in every parish, showing an average premium reduction of 9% compared to last year. He says you can work with an experienced, licensed agent at no cost…

Cut 7 (11) “…networks work.”

Bertaut says to connect with an agent call 1-844-GET-BLUE.

Residents should consider coverage needs, monthly premiums, and provider networks before enrolling, as each plan varies in cost and benefits. Bertaut says figuring out what health insurance plan works for you can be confusing, but the worst thing you can do is go uncovered…

Cut 8 (10) “…devastating if you do.”

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Louisiana’s newly drawn Sixth Congressional District could result in Democrats regaining control of the U.S. House of Representatives. Dillard University political science professor Doctor Robert Collins says the sixth district is expected to flip from Republican to Democrat because it’s now a Majority-minority district…

Cut 9 (06)  “…federal courts.”

Louisiana lawmakers approved new Congressional districts earlier this year after a federal judge ordered the state to create a second Majority-Minority District.

Republicans currently occupy 220 seats in the U.S. House, Democrats have 212 and there are three vacancies. Collins says Democrats are banking on winning the Sixth Congressional District in Louisiana…

Cut 10 (05) “…real opportunity.”

Republican Garret Graves represents the Sixth District, but the political boundaries of his district have been radically changed to favor a Black candidate. Four Democrats and one Republican are running for this open seat that might need a run-off election in December to decide.

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This is the weekend in which we “fall back.” Before you go to bed Saturday night, be sure to turn your clocks back an hour. Even though it will give us an extra hour of sleep, the time change can have some negative effects. Dr. Pamela Alonso with LSU in New Orleans says they go beyond sleep disruptions, and some can be very serious. 

Cut 11 (10) “…during those changes.”

Dr. Alonso says the most common negative effect is a disruption in the body’s natural circadian rhythm.

Cut 12 (10) “…on 24 hours.”

And as a result of the time change, people are going to have to completely alter their daily routines based on daylight or darkness.

Cut 13 (10)  “…want to sleep.”

It’s for these reasons that Congress in recent years has debated doing away with biennial time changes altogether as Mexico did in March of 2023.

Louisiana set a record for in-person early voting, beating its previous high set in 2020 by 32,000 votes. Sean Richardson has the numbers.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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A 14-year-old boy is shot to death in Terrebonne Parish. Andrew Greenstein explains.

Cut 2 (28) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Louisiana has set a record for in-person early voting, surpassing its previous high set in 2020. Recent reports from the Secretary of State’s Office show that 849,000 voters have cast their ballots early in person, compared to 817,000 in 2020. Including absentee ballots, 960,000 Louisianans voted ahead of the November 5 election.  Secretary of State Deputy Secretary Joel Watson says people are excited about this election.

Cut 3 (10) “…continuing this year.”

Watson says this year’s early voting also broke a single-day record on the final day, with people voting in person on Tuesday, beating the previous record of 99,000 from the last election cycle.

Cut 4 (05) “…cast their vote.”

Early voting statistics by parish show notable turnout, with Calcasieu Parish leading at 38,000 votes, followed by Jefferson Davis at 7,000, and Beauregard at 6,000. To accommodate absentee voters, the deadline to request an absentee ballot is 4:30 p.m. on Friday, and ballots must be returned by 4:30 p.m. on Monday. Louisiana voters can use the Geaux Vote Mobile app or GeauxVote.com for polling locations and sample ballots.

Cut 5 (09) “…requests in right away.”

Early voting statistics by parish show notable turnout, with Calcasieu Parish leading at 38,000 votes, followed by Jefferson Davis at 7,000, and Beauregard at 6,000.

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A 14-year-old boy is killed in a shooting in Terrebonne Parish. The shooting happened last Friday in a neighborhood in Chauvin, and the boy’s body was found in a wooded area. First Lieutenant Blake Tabor says the boy’s identity, which the sheriff’s office is not releasing, led to another discovery.

Cut 6 (11) “…several days prior.”

Lieutenant Tabor says the 14-year-old was breaking into the vehicles with two other juveniles, one of whom admitted to shooting the boy to death.

Cut 7 (11) “…14-year-old child.”

Tabor says while investigators believe that the vehicle burglaries and the deadly shooting are related to one another, the investigation is still ongoing, and that they’re not looking for anyone else.

Cut 8 (09) “…in Terrebonne Parish.”

The juveniles are each charged with second-degree murder.

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The St. Tammany Parish coroner is warning you about a supplement that’s widely available but could be deadly. Over the summer, a 36-year-old woman died in part of an overdose of the legal drug Kratom. Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape says since it’s readily available, people might not realize that it’s lethal in excessive doses.

Cut 9 (07)  “…think it’s safe.”

Dr. Tape says Kratom is derived from a tree native to Southeast Asia and mainly used to provide a burst of energy.

Cut 10 (08) “…underlying natural disease.”

In high doses, Kratom can cause seizures, which will cause the user to stop breathing. Tape says Kratom has been used for decades.

Cut 11 (16) “…you will overdose.”

Kratom is not regulated by the FDA, so there are no standards to ensure its safety.

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The Ragin Cajuns improved to 7-and-1, 4-and-0 in the Sun Belt with a hard fought 23-17 victory at Texas State last night. U-L Lafayette is now 5-and-0 on the road and Coach Michael Desormeaux (DEZ-er-mo) gives the credit to the players

Cut 12 (15) “…over and over again.”

Desormeaux says the key to the win was keeping Texas State out of the end zone when they had threatened.

Cut 13 (16)  “…a couple more.”

The Cajuns, who control their own destiny for a Western Division title, will host Arkansas State on November 9th.

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It was not an offensive explosion for either team as Louisiana Tech falls to Sam Houston last night, 9-3. The Bearkats scored the game’s lone touchdown early in the third quarter on a 40-yard touchdown run by running back Jevyon Ducker. Bulldogs Coach Sonny Cumbie says his team’s lack of effectiveness in the red zone was what doomed them.

Cut 14 (19) “…able to capitalize.”

Cumbie says with the exception of that long touchdown run, his team played a great defensive game.

Cut 15 (09) “…make that commitment.”

The Bulldogs will try to get back into the win column a week from Saturday at home against Jacksonville State.

Resale ticket websites are busy with activity as pop star Taylor Swift is set for three performances at the Superdome starting on Friday.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Political discussions can get very uncomfortable, and this presidential election season is no exception. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Taylor Swift’s record-breaking “Eras Tour” continues this weekend with three shows at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans, from Friday to Sunday.  Stubhub.com spokesperson Joseph Bocanegra says the Eras Tour surpasses her last concert tour in 2018…

Cut 3 (08) “…certainly up there.”

Launched in 2023, the “Eras Tour” has set numerous records, including surpassing $1 billion in sales, making Swift the first artist to achieve this milestone.  Bocanegra says the Saturday night show is most in demand…

Cut 4 (07) “…thousand dollars to get in.”

The tour has captivated fans globally, cementing Swift’s legacy as one of the most successful touring artists in history.  Bocanegra says Eras Tour is bringing international travelers to New Orleans…

Cut 5 (12) “…26 other countries”

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Discussing politics is always a stress-inducing activity, and this presidential election season is certainly no exception. Friendships and family relationships have been destroyed over political differences. Dr. Michelle Moore, the chief of psychology with LSU Health New Orleans, says people should enter such discussions with open minds and to listen carefully to the opposing view.

Cut 6 (16) “…think that way.”

Moore says if you can’t do that, the best thing to do is to avoid those situations altogether.

Cut 7 (11) “…engage with people.”

Thanksgiving is coming up, just a few short weeks after the presidential election, in which there’s no guarantee that the outcome will be known by then. Moore says hosts may want to consider setting boundaries as to what to talk about and what not to talk about at the Thanksgiving dinner table.

Cut 8 (14) “…moderate that environment.”

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Louisiana has recently adopted a new 10-point grading scale, transitioning from the previous 7-point system due to House Bill 424. Bill Author, Shreveport Representative Tammy Phelps says this change aims to standardize grading practices and align Louisiana more closely with many other states.

Cut 9 (10)  “…ccalculations accurate.”

This shift provides students with a broader range to achieve higher grades, potentially enhancing their GPAs and academic performance. Phelps says it also aims to create a more equitable grading system across the state, making it easier for students who transfer between schools or states.

Cut 10 (06) “…across the nation.”

For students, this change means increased opportunities for higher grades, clearer grading standards, and simplified transcript evaluations for college applications. Phelps says she hopes the new standard will allow Louisiana to be more competitive when it comes to comparing Louisiana’s education rankings with the rest of the country.

Cut 11 (06) “…is that beneficial?”

Phelps says despite these benefits, the importance of hard work, early identification of struggles, and seeking help remains paramount for academic success and resilience in life.

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A special session will likely begin in the first week of November as Governor Jeff Landry will ask lawmakers to approve his ambitious tax reform plan that would lower state income taxes for most, but widen the sales tax base. Jason DeCuir from Advantus Consulting is an expert on tax law and says legislators are taking a close look at all the new services that would be taxed under the governor’s plan….

Cut 12 (08) “…be taxed.”

Landry’s plan calls for the state’s 4.45 percent sales tax to be expanded to several other services, like lawn care, pet grooming, used car sales and lobbying activities. DeCuir says this is a big change to the state’s tax code and legislators are taking a long look at it…

Cut 13 (11) “…parish rate is.” 

DeCuir says legislators have been studying rough drafts of the bills that make up the governor’s tax plan. The reform also includes changes to Article Seven in the state constitution and that’s drawing a lot of questions too…

Cut 14 (12) “…the constitution.”

A federal judge hears arguments over the state’s controversial Ten Commandments law, and the judge is expected to issue a ruling by the middle of next month. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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A Louisiana Tech student has been accused of driving drunk and killing a 21-year-old man from Sterlington. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A federal judge in Baton Rouge heard arguments yesterday over the state law requiring the Ten Commandments to be posted in all public school classrooms. One of the plaintiffs, Unitarian Universalist Reverend Darcy Roake, says it’s not the state’s job to push religion on kids.

Cut 3 (11) “…the school system.”

Reverend Roake said there are many kids, including her own, who don’t live by the Ten Commandments.

Cut 4 (11) “…able to answer.”

The state argued that the Ten Commandments have historical significance and is not overtly religious. The hearing included testimony from Steven K. Green of Willamette University, who the plaintiffs called as an expert witness. Attorney General Liz Murrill argued that Green’s testimony be excluded.

Cut 5 (15) “…was admittedly subjective (2x)”

Murrill said Green failed to prove that the posting of the Ten Commandments in classrooms violates the First Amendment.

Cut 6 (11) “…for the judge.”

Judge John deGravelles (de-GRAVEL) is expected to issue a ruling by November 15th.

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State Police is looking for the driver of the vehicle that struck a pedestrian on Interstate 20 in Richland Parish just east of Louisiana Highway 133. The crash claimed the life of 35-year-old Jared Osbon of West Monroe. Trooper Ryan Davis says investigators believe it was a 2021 or newer Ford Super Duty truck that hit him…

Cut 7 (12) “…through that area”

Davis says it’s likely the truck that struck Osbon sustained damage to the left front headlight assembly and grill.

Cut 8 (12) “…close this case.”

Pedestrians should stay clear of interstates, including walking on the shoulder, median, and crossing lanes along the roadway.  Davis emphasized when walking along roads be sure there is a sidewalk…

Cut 9 (07)  “…diligence in being safe.”

The crash is under investigation and Davis urges anyone with information on this crash to contact Louisiana State Police – Troop F at 318-345-0000.

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A genealogist has identified the remains of five enslaved people who are buried on the grounds of a proposed plastics facility in St. James Parish. The plant would be on the site of a former plantation owned by Benjamin Winchester. Lenora Gobert (go-BEAR) says the five people were between the ages of nine and 31 when they died.

Cut 10 (18) “…died at nine.”

The first names of the other two are Stanley and Henry. Gobert points out that it was standard practice back then to bury the remains of enslaved people at the plantations they worked at.

Cut 11 (07) “…on the plantation.”

Gobert says these sites need to be treated just like any cemetery, with the utmost respect for those buried there.

Cut 12 (14) “…least not yet.”

Community groups have been battling Taiwan-based Formosa Plastics Group for years, trying to prevent it from putting up its 9.4-billion-dollar facility there. The company says it has fenced off the burial site for protection.

Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy has 5.8 million in his campaign warchest, along with an additional $1 million in his SuperPAC sending a strong signal he will run for re-election in 2026.  Sean Richardson has more.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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The challenge to Louisiana’s controversial Ten Commandments law goes before the U.S. District Court in Baton Rouge this morning. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Some 150-thousand Swifties are set to invade New Orleans this week. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Ahead of the 2026 election cycle, Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy raised nearly $1.5 million in the third quarter of this year and has 5.8 million dollars in cash on hand. Cassidy’s team says this is the most cash on hand for any incumbent Louisiana senator at this point in history.  LA-Politics-dot-come Publisher Jeremy Alford…

Cut 4 (08) “…fundraising base come together.”

There’s been speculation Cassidy may not seek a third-term. But Alford says Cassidy is sending a strong signal about his intentions…

Cut 5 (05) “…put up a tough fight.”

But Cassidy could face challengers from his own party, PSC Member Eric Skrmetta and State Treasurer John Fleming are rumored candidates. Both are arguably more conservative than Cassidy. Skrmetta has close connections with Donald Trump, and Alford noted Fleming was a Deputy Chief of Staff in the Trump administration.

Cut 6 (09) “…wait and see.”

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Oral arguments will take place in U.S. District Court in Baton Rouge this morning over Louisiana’s controversial Ten Commandments law. The law which requires all public school classrooms to display the Ten Commandments is on hold as it works its way through the courts.

Cut 7 (14) “…in public schools.”

Dane Ciolino (see-oh-LEEN-oh), a professor of law at the Loyola University-New Orleans College of Law, says the plaintiffs, which includes the ACLU, have Supreme Court precedent on their side.

Cut 8 (14) “…in public schools.”

While the state will argue that the law is constitutional, Ciolino says it has almost no chance of winning in the lower court.

Cut 9 (16)  “…establishment clause precedent.”

Ciolino says despite the Supreme Court precedent, the state actually has a good chance of winning in the Supreme Court, should the case get that far, since the current Supreme Court has shown a willingness to allow religion in public schools. But before it gets there, it would need to go to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

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An Amendment to Louisiana’s Constitution on this November’s ballot would dedicate any federal money Louisiana receives from offshore Alternative energy production to the Coastal Protection and Restoration Fund which funds coastal protection projects. CPRF is constitutionally protected and already receives dedicated OIL and GAS money from federal and state sources, and from the BP Oil Spill settlement.  State Representative Joseph Orgeron…

Cut 10 (12) “…energy infrastucture.”

A vote against Amendment 1 would send any Federal money received from offshore wind, solar, or other alternative renewable energy sources to the state’s general fund. Orgeron says expiring funds need to be replaced because the CPRF does several projects that safeguard the coast, its people, and businesses.

Cut 11 (09) …in 2031.”

All of Louisiana’s share of federal money from the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) is dedicated to CPRF. Louisiana’s lawmakers in Washington are currently working to improve GOMESA. Orgeron says dedicating those funds to coastal restoration helped push the original passage of GOMESA.

Cut 12 (11) “…all of the renewables.”

Opponents of Amendment 1 say dedicating money from offshore energy production to the CPFR restricts lawmakers’ ability to make budget decisions. Some believe federal money received should be shared across the whole state because north and central Louisiana have as many needs as the coastal region.

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New Orleans is getting ready for the invasion of the Swifties. Travis Kelce’s girlfriend will be performing three shows at the Superdome Friday through Sunday. Kelly Schulz (shuhlz) with New Orleans and Company says with close to 150-thousand people descending on the Crescent City, hotel rooms are nearly gone.

Cut 13 (09)  “…going very quickly.”

And Schulz says the hospitality industry will be getting into full Taylor Swift fever.

Cut 14 (15) “…New Orleans way.”

Schulz says the Taylor Swift shows will provide a golden opportunity to showcase the city on a worldwide stage.

Cut 15 (09) “…throughout their lifetime.”

Schulz says through her shows, Taylor Swift single-handedly boosts cities’ economies throughout the world. If you’d like to see Taylor Swift in concert and don’t yet have a ticket, be prepared to fork over some serious dough. Tickets on the secondary market are going for a minimum of one-thousand dollars apiece, not including fees.

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LSU rolled past the Razorbacks on Saturday night beating Arkansas 34 to 10 in Fayetteville. The win sets up a huge game this Saturday against Texas A-and-M. The Tigers and Aggies are both undefeated in SEC play and Coach Brian Kelly’s team has to go back on the road again…

Cut 16 (16)   “…anymore.”

LSU started fast in Fayetteville with a touchdown on its opening drive. When Arkansas got back into the game, Tigers linebacker Whit Weeks had a huge interception to set up a Caden Durham touchdown. LSU finished the scoring with 14-play, 80 yard drive late in the fourth quarter. Kelly says the Tigers played well from start to finish…

Cut 17 (17) “…this point.”

LSU has won six in a row since the season-opening loss to USC and Kelly’s team seems to be getting better every week…

Cut 18 (18)  “…coming together.

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The Ragin Cajuns racked up a season-high 516 yards of total offense as U-L Lafayette defeated Coastal Carolina 34-24. Quarterback Ben Woolridge threw for a career-high 373 yards and accounted for four touchdowns in the big win on the road…

Cut 19 (17) “…score touchdowns.”  

The Cajuns are bowl eligible for a school-record seventh straight season and they are tied for first place in the Sun Belt West with ULM. Coach Michael Desormeaux…

Cut 20 (20) “…our best.” 

The Cajuns are at Texas State on Saturday.