Congresswoman Julia Letlow is one of the most well-liked politicians in the state and she’s facing a big decision according to The Advocate’s political reporter Tyler Bridges. Jeanne Burns has more…

Cut 1 (25) “…I’m Jeanne Burns”

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A Morgan City woman is working on a feature film about the first woman ever executed in the State of Louisiana. Andrew Greenstein reports. 

Cut 2 (37) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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ESPN+ voice of the Ragin’ Cajuns, Dan McDonald, says Louisiana Tech will be a school Sun Belt fans love to hate. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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The big question in Louisiana politics is Congresswoman Julia Letlow’s next move. That’s according to The Advocate’s political reporter Tyler Bridges. Bridges says Letlow has three different options in front of her…run for re-election, challenge Bill Cassidy in next year’s U-S Senate race or put her hat into the ring as the next president of LSU…

Cut 4 (14) “…of LSU.”

If she decides to challenge Bill Cassidy in the Republican Primary, a decision is needed soon, because qualifying is in January.

The LSU presidential search committee is expected to begin its work next month, with the hope of naming a new president by the end of the year. Bridges says Letlow would be an outside-the-box candidate to lead LSU…

Cut 5 (10) “…Monroe.”

Bridges reports Letlow recently moved to Baton Rouge, and her home in Richland Parish is up for sale. Bridges says Letlow would not speak to him for this article, but he spoke with dozens of others, who believe if President Trump endorses Letlow for U-S Senate, she’ll get into the Senate race…

Cut 6 (13) “…Senator Cassidy.”

Senator Cassidy was invited to the White House on Friday to celebrate the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill. But the President expressed his displeasure with Cassidy following his 2021 vote to convict Trump for the January sixth attack on the U-S Capitol.

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A Morgan City filmmaker is developing a feature film about the first woman ever executed in Louisiana. Ada Leboeuf was hanged in St. Mary Parish in 1929, along with her family physician, Dr. Tom Dreher, in connection with the murder of her husband. Matison LeBlanc learned of her story while attending film school at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia, and decided that she wanted to tell her story in her project entitled “Ada and the Doc.” LeBlanc says Leboeuf had maintained her innocence right up until the moment she was executed.

Cut 7 (07) “…for 15 minutes.”

For her senior year project, LeBlanc and her team produced a 15-minute short, and to say that it was a huge hit is putting it very mildly.

Cut 8 (09) “…thing can happen.”

And that got LeBlanc to move forward with the full-length feature film. The only thing is, it requires money, and it does not grow on trees.

Cut 9 (08)  “…to seven-million.”

LeBlanc is looking to produce “Ada and the Doc” in Louisiana to take advantage of the state’s 40-percent film tax incentive. Her goal is to begin shooting in the summer of 2026 and begin the festival run, including the Cannes Film Festival, in 2027.

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The fallout from Louisiana Tech joining the Sun Belt is yet to be seen, but ESPN+ voice of the Cajuns, Dan McDonald, says so far, it’s all positive. While some fans may hold old grudges, McDonald says it’s time university officials let bygones be bygones.

Cut 10 (14) “…people engaged.”

McDonald encouraged fans to keep their passion, however. He says historic, personal rivalries are what have made college football into what it is today, and there’s no better example than the in-state battles LA Tech’s addition will revive.

Cut 11 (12) “…to watch that.”

McDonald says Louisiana Tech makes even more sense geographically than Texas State did. In an era of national conference realignment and expansion, he says the Sun Belt is built to stay together.

Cut 12 (08) “…great deal.”

LA Tech will make the official move in 2026 or 2027

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Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser is hailing the cancellation of the Mid-Barataria Sediment Diversion Project. The lieutenant governor, who was the president of Plaquemines Parish before being elected to his current office, says the project was ineffective as the budget soared into the stratosphere.

Cut 13 (13)  “…we building it?”

Nungesser says not only was the project a waste of money, but it was also a waste of time.

Cut 14 (12) “…protecting our coast.”

The project is being replaced with a smaller scale project called the Myrtle Grove project, which Nungesser says will achieve the goal in a much more cost-effective way.

Cut 15 (11) “…growth is good.”

Former Congressman Garret Graves once led the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. In a statement, he says the cancellation will result in one of the largest setbacks for the coast and the protection of coastal communities in decades.

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A named storm in the Gulf of Mexico by Thursday is a possibility. Jeff Palermo reports regardless of development, heavy rainfall is expected in Louisiana.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission has a stern message for all you kamikaze drivers out there. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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The National Hurricane Center says there is a medium chance for a tropical depression to form near Louisiana’s southeast coast later this week. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says regardless of development, significant rainfall totals are expected…

Cut 3 (09) “…south Louisiana.”

The rainfall will reach coastal parishes of southeast Louisiana on Wednesday. Keim says Thursday and Friday are the days we could see several inches of rain fall for a good portion of south Louisiana.

Cut 4 (07) “…watch on it.”

Southeast Louisiana is under a flood watch from tomorrow afternoon through late Friday night.

The disorganized system will cross the Florida peninsula today and enter the northeastern Gulf of Mexico by tomorrow. Keim says its ability to organize into a named storm will depend on how long the center of the storm stays over water before making landfall along the northern Gulf coast. He says they are not expecting this system to develop into a hurricane…

Cut 5 (05) “…wind or surge”

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The EPA has approved two State Implementation Plans that will reduce sulfur dioxide emissions. The first addresses emissions at Cabot Corporation’s Ville Platte carbon black plant. State Department of Environmental Quality administrator Jason Meyers says the plant is redesigning and reconstructing a large portion of the plant to bring Evangeline Parish into compliance with EPA standards.

Cut 6 (08) “…90-plus percent.”

Meyers says the submitted plan proves the area will reach attainment with EPA standards, leaving just one non-attainment area in Louisiana- St. Bernard Parish. Meyers says work has been underway there as well, and a plan should be ready soon.

Cut 7 (09) “…submit it to EPA.”

The second plan is one Meyers called an “infrastructure SIP.” He says it’s a necessary first step when an EPA standard changes.

Cut 8 (14) “…outside the state.”

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The Louisiana Highway Safety Commission has a stern message for all you kamikaze drivers out there – chill out and slow down! It’s part of a month-long national campaign aimed at reminding drivers that speeding has deadly consequences. Greg Fischer with the LHSC says in 2023, speeding was a factor in almost 29-percent of all fatal crashes nationwide.

Cut 9 (11)  “…speeding is involved.”

Most people think that the majority of speeding-related fatal crashes occur on the Interstates, but Fischer says that’s not correct – in 2023, 83-percent of them in Louisiana happened on non-Interstate roadways. Fischer says chilling out and slowing down doesn’t mean driving at a snail’s pace, either.

Cut 10 (07) “…the speed limits.”

Fischer says the biggest point that they want to drive home through this campaign is that a car is not a toy – it is to be operated safely and responsibly.

Cut 11 (08) “…can’t prepare for.”

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LSU is expecting the return of some key contributors on both sides of the ball from injury. Linebacker Whit Weeks suffered a broken fibula and dislocated ankle in the Tigers’ New Year’s Eve bowl game versus Baylor. At SEC Media Days yesterday, he said he’d be good to go for camp.

Cut 12 (13) “…really good.”

Weeks’ linebacking partner, Harold Perkins, suffered a season-ending ACL injury against UCLA in week four. After a true freshman All-American season in 2022, Perkins has struggled with position changes and now injury. Head coach Brian Kelly says Perkins could have gone to the NFL Draft.

Cut 13 (12)  “…to do so.”

Kelly confirmed Perkins would be ready for the start of camp back at his old position of outside linebacker.

Wide Receiver Chris Hilton has been plagued by injuries at LSU. He missed the first seven games of last season and totaled only nine receptions for 243 yards and three touchdowns. Hilton has always been a big play threat, but quarterback Garrett Nussmeier says he’s improved as he’s gotten healthier.

Cut 14 (11) “…season last year.”

LSU football coach Brian Kelly kicked off SEC Media Days in Atlanta this morning. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Sun Belt CEOs reportedly voted to invite Louisiana Tech to the conference. Jeff Palermo broke down the move with Locked on Sun Belt podcast host Dave Schultz…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly took the podium at SEC Football Media Days this morning. Expectations have been high for Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier in his second year starting. Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels posted historic Heisman-winning seasons in year two. Kelly says while that’s a steep comparison, he expects Nussmeier’s experience to help him improve.

Cut 3 (10) “…with that (x2).”

LSU brought in 18 veterans in the top-ranked transfer class this offseason. Kelly expects the class to bolster a defensive unit he acknowledged was improved last season, but not championship level. He says defensive coordinator Blake Baker is elite, and his players should be as well.

Cut 4 (14) “…level defense.”

LSU’s offensive weapons are as loaded as ever, but after four offensive linemen departed in the NFL Draft, there are some question marks in the trenches. Kelly says losing his offensive anchors would be an issue if unprepared, but his staff has been grooming the next generation since Will Campbell and Emery Jones started as freshmen.

Cut 5 (14) “…championship team.”

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A police chase in Lincoln Parish ends with deputies shooting and killing the driver they were chasing. Deputy Amanda Lyon with the Northeast Louisiana Sheriff’s Investigative Unit says deputies attempted a traffic stop Saturday night, but the driver instead took off.

Cut 6 (06) “…driver’s side window.”

Lyon says the pursuit lasted for about 16 miles, coming to an end on U.S. 167 near Paradise Point Lane.

Cut 7 (06) “…drop the weapon.”

But instead, the man pointed his gun at deputies, who shot him.

Cut 8 (06) “…at the scene.”

But those life-saving measures proved to be futile, as the man was pronounced dead at the scene. No deputies were injured. Investigators from surrounding agencies have taken over the investigation, which remains ongoing.

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The National Hurricane Center is monitoring the gulf for the possibility of some tropical activity later this week. LSU Public Health Climatologist Barry Keim says as of right now, the odds of a tropical system forming are fairly low.

Cut 9 (08)  “…a watch on.”

Keim says whatever does eventually happen with any potential disturbance in the gulf likely will not have much of a major impact on the Louisiana coast.

Cut 10 (09) “…across this area.”

Keim says if anything, this will be a rainmaker, with the biggest likelihood being late in the week and into the weekend.

Cut 11 (10) “…from this event.”

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Louisiana Tech is officially Sun Belt-bound after league officials voted to invite the Bulldogs this morning. Tech was named the obvious candidate to replace Texas State as the Bobcats head to the PAC-12, but Sun Belt East schools preferred expansion into a new market over a third Louisiana program. Locked On Sun Belt Podcast host Dave Schultz says most of the conference’s recent additions have been in the east.

Cut 12 (13) “…ULM dramatically.”

Louisiana Tech’s addition was backed by Western schools like ULM and UL-Lafayette despite historic conflicts between the programs. Schultz says Louisiana schools will save money on bus ride commutes and reignite heated in-state rivalries, especially in Lafayette.

Cut 13 (12)  “…on the field stuff.”

The move will also benefit the Bulldogs, who become the tenth team to leave Conference USA since 2022. Schultz says LA Tech needs to reinvest the money it will save from regional rivalries to compete in one of the top mid-major conferences.

Cut 14 (12) “…the Sun Belt is.”

Louisiana Tech will owe at least a $5 million fee to leave Conference USA. The soonest they can make the move is 2026, the same year Texas State departs for the PAC-12.

For the first time ever, the number of Republican active registered voters in Louisiana exceeds the number of Democratic active registered voters. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly will take the podium at the first of four SEC Football Media Days in Atlanta today. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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A highly contagious and deadly disease that was believed to have been eliminated in the U.S. a quarter century ago is back with a vengeance. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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For the first time, the number of active registered Republican voters in Louisiana exceeds the number of active registered Democratic voters. John Couvillon (KOO-vee-ahn) with JMC Analytics and Polling, says when examining the total number of registered voters, Democrats still outnumber Republicans in the state. However, when you remove those who haven’t voted in the last two federal elections, that changes things.

Cut 4 (10) “…of registered Republicans.”

Couvillon says it will take a while for Republicans to overtake Democrats in the number of registered voters in Louisiana, since there are many more inactive Democrats on the voter rolls.

Cut 5 (10) “…early next year.”

Couvillon says month after month, Democrats keep losing registered voters.

Cut 6 (09) “…new young Democrats.”

958-thousand Republican active voters to 920-thousand active voters.

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SEC Football Media Days kick off in Atlanta with LSU, Ole Miss, South Carolina and Vanderbilt. Tigers coach Brian Kelly will be joined by quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, linebacker Whit Weeks and wide receiver Chris Hilton. Locked On SEC Podcast host Chris Gordy says Nussmeier could be the next great year two LSU quarterback.

Cut 7 (12) “…the floor.”

11 of the 16 SEC schools will be bringing their quarterbacks to Atlanta. Florida sophomore DJ Lagway is sure to be a headliner, but no name will be bigger than Texas’s Arch Manning. Gordy says Arch Mania is in full effect.

Cut 8 (12) “…the right way.”

One of the stories of the offseason sure to be discussed is future formatting for the College Football Playoffs. Expansion from 12 to 16 teams is almost certain, but the Big Ten and SEC have debated whether their conferences should receive multiple auto-bids. Gordy says four SEC teams would likely make the playoffs each year anyway.

Cut 9 (12)  “…gonna happen.”

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U-S Senator John Kennedy says the only way to put a stop to the Russian-Ukraine war is to keep Russia from selling oil to countries like China. Kennedy says he believes Ukraine is willing to negotiate a reasonable deal, but Russian President Vladimir Putin is not interested in a settlement until he decides its in his best interest to stop the war…

Cut 10 (10) “…he can’t continue.”

Kennedy says Russia’s economy is not diversified, it’s mostly oil and the selling of oil to other countries is helping them pay for their conflict against Ukraine…

Cut 11 (12) “…cash flow.”

Kennedy says if America does not cut off Russia’s sale of oil, the war, could go forever. He says current sanctions on Russia are not enough. The Republican Senator is calling on Congress to pass a bill that says countries who buy oil from Russia, can no longer do business with America and you can no longer use the American dollar to do business in America…

Cut 12 (10) “…bargaining table.”

Kennedy says President Trump is trying to negotiate the peace, but he’s hoping he’ll throw his support behind a bill that will cut off Putin’s cash flow.

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It was thought to have been eradicated a quarter century ago; but apparently, measles is back with a vengeance. Dr. Fred Lopez, a professor of medical education at the LSU School of Medicine in New Orleans, says the number of measles cases across the country is staggering.

Cut 13 (12)  “…was declared eliminated.” (1,288 as of mid-week last week)

In fact, the previous high since then was 1,282 cases – and we still have almost half the year to go. Louisiana is among the 38 states with confirmed cases. Dr. Lopez says your very best defense against the highly contagious and deadly disease is to get vaccinated.

Cut 14 (11) “…for two doses.”

Lopez says if the vaccines don’t prevent you from getting measles, they will at least keep symptoms down to a minimum.

Cut 15 (10) “…immune to it.”

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Leaders from Sun Belt schools are expected to vote today to invite Louisiana Tech into the league as the 14th member of the conference. Tech would replace Texas State, who just left for the PAC-12. Locked on Sun Belt podcast host Dave Schultz says momentum began building last week for the Bulldogs to join the Sun Belt…

Cut 16 (15) “…the votes.”

School’s in Sun Belt’s western division have supported the move from the beginning, but schools in the East Division were not thrilled with having three schools from Louisiana in the Sun Belt. But Schultz says Tech is the obvious choice to replace Texas State because of geography…

Cut 17 (11)  “…to dry.”

Louisiana Tech would leave Conference USA for the Sun Belt next July.

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It didn’t go as excaclty as planned, but LSU left-hander Kade Anderson is still excited about the team that drafted him. The Washington Nationals and the Los Angeles Angles both passed on the D-1 baseball National College Pitcher of the Year, which allowed the Mariners to grab Anderson with the third overall pick. Seattle’s V-P of Amateur Scouting Scott Hunter. says they are thrilled Anderson dropped to them…

Cut 18 (18)  “…impressive.”

Anderson was the Most Outstanding Player of the 2025 College World Series. He was 12-1 during his sophomore season with a 3.18 ERA and he led the nation in strikeouts with 180 in 119 innings. The lefty celebrated the moment with his family in Madisonville…

Cut 19 (10) “…grateful for.”

After an up and down freshman season, Anderson flourised his sophomore campaign under the tutelage of pitching coach Nate Yeskie.

Most of the mock drafts had the Nationals selecting Anderson with the number one overall pick. Instead, Washington took 17-year-old Eli Willits from Oklahoma. Anderson says the only team to visit him in Louisiana was Seattle and he had a great visit with Seattle’s Assistant General Manager Andy McKay…

Cut 20 (22) “…like a dream.”

The Saints traded in black and gold for white and gold with a new alternate helmet released today. Kace Kieschnick has more

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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Cotton used to be Louisiana’s top agricultural commodity, but this year the state is expected to produce its smallest cotton crop ever. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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President Trump’s budget bill phases out wind and solar power tax credits created during the Biden Administration. These tax credits help energy companies pay for projects that produce solar and wind energy. Director of LSU’s Center for Energy Studies, Doctor Greg Upton, says without this federal subsidy, ratepayers will pick up more of the cost, but the impact is several years away…

Cut 3 (09) “…the facility.”

New solar and wind energy projects can still receive the tax credit, but construction needs to start in the next year to qualify.

Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Davante Lewis has said the bill signed into law by the President last week will raise electricity prices. Upton says it’s possible, but not in the short term…

Cut 4 (11) “…period of time.”

There are 14 utility-scale solar farms in Louisiana, five of these farms were built last year. The Advocate reports there are at least five utility-scale wind projects in development in Louisiana.

Upton says less than one percent of the electricity in Louisiana comes from solar and wind and that percentage will likely not grow as a result

Cut 5 (07) “…that speed.”

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University Lab two-way lineman Lamar Brown is set to make his commitment at 12:15 p.m. tomorrow. Zach Nagy of SI on LSU says the five-star is the number one-ranked athlete in the class of 2026.

Cut 6 (11) “…offensive lineman.”

Brown is a top ten recruit according to most outlets and ESPN’s top overall prospect. Nagy says the Cub will have his pick of schools, but he’s narrowed down his list.

Cut 7 (13) “…and versatility.”

Brown canceled his official visit to LSU following his trip to College Station. Nagy says he’s been a top priority for the Tigers’ staff, who currently have two D-line commits in the 2026 class.

Cut 8 (14) “…and he knows it.”

On3.com gives LSU an 86% chance to land the blue chip while 247Sports gives the nod to Texas A&M with a 75% chance.

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Louisiana Democrats say they plan on making inroads ahead of the midterm elections by launching what they call the “Fight For Our Lives.” State Party Executive Director Dadrius (“Darius”) Lanus says that involves reaching out to people from outside the party.

Cut 9 (09)  “…that we build.”

Lanus says that also means traveling to parishes that have historically tilted very far towards the Republicans.

Cut 10 (06) “…to rural parishes.”

Lanus points out that so far, the strategy has worked. He notes that Lake Charles has just elected its first Black mayor in history, with independent Marshall Simien unseating Republican incumbent Nic Hunter. He also noted that DeRidder, in Beauregard Parish, elected its first Black mayor in Democrat Michael Harris. Lanus says the Louisiana Democratic Party can become a better party by Louisiana becoming a better state.

Cut 11 (10) “…slash-united-gulf.”

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For decades cotton was king. But this year the Louisiana cotton crop is expected to be the smallest in history. State Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain says input costs to produce cotton has gone up and the price farmers can get for cotton has gone down from two dollars a pound in the mid-1800s

Cut 12 (12) “…what’s going on.”

Soybeans is Louisiana’s largest crop, followed by corn and rice. The number of cotton gins has also declined from 56 in 2001 to 15 today. Strain says farmers will not spend time growing a crop that’s hard to turn a profit

Cut 13 (05)  “…other crops.”

Strain says less than 100-thousand acres of cotton could be planted this year.

Cut 14 (09) “…by soybeans.”

The Louisiana Democratic Party says it will make sure the primary will not be Bill Cassidy’s only political fight next year, should he survive it. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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Candidates seeking to replace term-limited New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell can officially qualify today for the October 11^th primary. Jeff Palermo reports.

Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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A delegation representing the Saints is visiting France this week. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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ULM has received the final nine million dollars in state funding required to complete the renovation of its Sugar Hall. Sugar Hall was opened in 1971 to house ULM’s College of Pharmacy before moving to the Bienville Campus in 2005. President Dr. Carrie Castille says Sugar Hall is ingrained in Louisiana healthcare.

Cut 4 (12) “…sciences programs.”

The renovation is scheduled to finish in the summer of 2026. Castille says the new-and-improved Sugar Hall will host occupational therapy, medical laboratory science, speech pathology and other College of Health Science programs.

Cut 5 (12) “…workforce development.”

Castille says the facility will also function as community clinics for the school’s occupational therapy, speech-language, and dental hygiene programs.

Cut 6 (10) “…northeast Louisiana.”

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Bill Cassidy may be in for the fight of his political life next April with two prominent Republicans running against him for the party’s nomination in the state’s newly-closed primary election. But Louisiana Democratic Party Executive Director Dadrius (“Darius”) Lanus says if Cassidy survives, that won’t be his only fight next year.

Cut 7 (08) “…run against him.”

State Treasurer John Fleming and State Senator Blake Miguez have both announced primary challenges against Cassidy, with each citing his vote to convict then-former President Donald Trump in his second impeachment trial following the January 6th attack at the Capitol. Lanus says no matter how much Cassidy bows to Trump now that he’s President again, the damage is done, and it’s irreparable.

Cut 8 (09) “…it didn’t work.”

Lanus says with the passage of what Republicans call the Big Beautiful Bill and what Democrats call the Big Ugly Bill, the gloves are off, and Democrats are coming out fighting in the midterms next year.

Cut 9 (08)  “…House Speaker Johnson.”

While Louisiana currently has two Republicans in the Senate, it wasn’t too long ago that Louisiana had a Democrat in the Senate. Mary Landrieu served in the Senate until the start of 2015, when she was unseated by Cassidy. Louisiana, in fact, was represented by two Democrats as recently as the start of 2005,when David Vitter became the state’s first Republican senator since 1883.

(Note: 1883 is not a typo.)

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Qualifying begins today for the October 11^th election and the biggest race in the state is the mayor’s race in New Orleans. Current mayor LaToya Cantrell is term limited and cannot seek a third term. UNO pollster Ed Chervenak expects several candidates will sign up to qualify over the next three days and as it stands now, four of them have a shot.

Cut 10 (07) “…from running.”

Former Orleans Parish Criminal Court Judge Arthur Hunter, New Orleans City Council president Helena Moreno, city councilor Oliver Thomas and state senator Royce Duplessis have the highest name recognition. Chervenak says two polls have been conducted on the race and Moreno is the favorite.

Cut 11 (13) “..through the campaign.”

Duplessis announced his entrance into the race less than two weeks ago. He has been an outspoken state lawmaker since 2019 and Chervenak says Duplessis can use his experience as a legislator to his advantage.

Cut 12 (12) “…right now.”

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A delegation from the Saints, including owner Gayle Benson and linebacker Demario Davis, is on a relationship-building mission in France this week. Also among the delegation is Senior Vice President of Communications Greg Bensel; he says they will be launching flag football this Sunday with their European League of Football counterparts, the Paris Musketeers.

Cut 13 (07)  “…in the NFL.”

With the heavy French influence on both New Orleans and Louisiana, it’s only fitting that the NFL granted the Saints international marketing rights to France. Bensel says team executives have taken several relationship-building trips to France over the years.

Cut 14 (14) “…business in Louisiana.”

Bensel says of course, the Saints are using this trip to grow the game of American football in France.

Cut 15 (10) “…it more popular.”

The Paris Musketeers, by the way, have a direct lineage to the Saints. Their head coach is Jack Del Rio, who started his NFL career with the Saints, playing for them for two seasons.

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Haynesville safety and quarterback Isaiah Washington announced his commitment to LSU July 4th. The three-star prospect chose the Tigers over Arkansas, Tulane and Louisiana Tech. Haynesville football coach David Franklin says Washington will be an elite athlete in the LSU secondary.

Cut 16 (13) “…room to grow.”

Washington is the number 23 prospect in Louisiana and the third-ranked safety in the state. Franklin says the Golden Hurricane had an opening at quarterback Washington’s freshman year.

Cut 17 (19)  “…leader now.”

Washington joins the 2026 LSU recruiting class currently ranked eighth in the nation and featuring two five-star and nine four-star commits. Franklin says he’s had a lot of great athletes come through his program, but not all are built the same.

Cut 18 (16)  “…all the tools.”

Iberville Parish Sheriff Brett Stassi says slain St. Gabriel Officer Devin Boutte was under investigation and had a relationship with his suspected killer. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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The United Cajun Navy is in the Texas Hill Country helping with search and rescue efforts following the catastrophic flash flooding that has so far killed 108 people. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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St. Gabriel police captain Devin Boutte was found stabbed to death in his home Sunday morning. Authorities report the officer had an on-and-off domestic relationship with the suspect and was under investigation for corruption. 25-year-old Warren Mitchell III admitted to stabbing Boutte multiple times. Iberville Parish Sheriff Brett Stassi says the suspect sold drugs for Boutte.

Cut 3 (11) “…doing together.”

Crystal meth and other drugs were found inside the home. Stassi brought allegations of corruption to the Attorney General’s Office, which began their investigation just ten days before the murder.  Stassi says the investigation was slowed.

Cut 4 (12) “…end result.”

Mitchell is facing charges of second-degree murder as the homicide investigation is still ongoing. Stassi says the vicious attack occurred while Boutte was sleeping, and the entire situation is tragic.

Cut 5 (14) “…that person.”

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The United Cajun Navy is helping with the search and rescue operation in the Texas Hill Country, where more than 100 people have been killed in flash floods. So far, United Cajun Navy searchers have found 11 bodies. Vice President Brian Trascher says they have sent people with very specific backgrounds to the scene.

Cut 6 (14) “…kind of experience.”

Trascher says rain in the area has subsided; and thus, the rivers are fairly calm. 

Cut 7 (12) “…to be there.”

Trascher says the United Cajun Navy will remain in Texas until officials there say they have everything under control.

Cut 8 (15) “…easier on us.”

Overall, the death toll has reached 108. Five campers and one counselor from Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for.

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The United Way of Southwest Louisiana is responding to the disaster through its UnitedGulf disaster relief campaign. Volunteer Coordinator Ashley Norman says the very best thing you can donate right now is money.

Cut 9 (09)  “…of logistical work.”

Norman says furthermore, by donating cash, you’re not creating additional logistical headaches.

Cut 10 (06) “…of the area.”

Norman says if you’d like to help out in this effort, it’s very easy.

Cut 11 (10) “…slash-united-gulf.”

(Text UNITEDGULF to 40403 or visit unitedwayswla.org/unitedgulf)

A 12-member team, including firefighters from Baton Rouge, Zachary, West Feliciana, and Shreveport Fire Departments, deployed to Texas to aid in the catastrophic flood response, particularly in Kerr County.

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Sean Richardson.”

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Congratulations to Garrett Nussmeier, he got down on one knee over the holiday weekend to propose to his longtime girlfriend. Jeff Palermo has the happy story…

Cut 2 (29) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Crime continues to plague Natchitoches, with the latest incident happening early yesterday morning. Police Sergeant John Greely says there was a deadly mass shooting shortly after 1:30.

Cut 3 (08) “…was pronounced deceased.” (six shot, one fatally)

The man who died has been identified as 18-year-old Latravion Stallworth of Natchitoches. Of the other five victims, three were released from the hospital, and two are in stable condition. Sergeant Greely says this happened on Keyser (KYE-zer) Avenue.

Cut 4 (05) “…late night eateries.”

Greely says at this time, it’s unknown what led up to the shooting.

Cut 5 (05) “…towards this case.”

So far, no one is in custody.

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President Donald Trump signed the Big Beautiful Bill on the Fourth of July.  So when will people start seeing effects? Senator Bill Cassidy says that for some Louisiana taxpayers, will feel it right away.

Cut 6 (05) “…overtime begin.”

Cassidy says the One Big Beautiful Bill expands business incentives…

Cut 7 (12) “…create those jobs.”

The legislation extends tax cuts approved in 2017 and creates new ones like for workers who receive tips or overtime compensation. Cassidy says the legislation also ends several consumer tax credits connected to clean energy

Cut 8 (10) “…six weeks, six months.”

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A 12-member task force comprised of firefighters from Baton Rouge, Zachary, West Feliciana, and Shreveport are in Texas to aid in catastrophic flood response, particularly in Kerr County.  Baton Rouge Fire Chief Michael Kimble says swift water operations are still ongoing and they are there as a back-up to a team that’s already conducting them…

Cut 9 (08)  “…by another team.”

Trained in swift water rescue and urban search and rescue, the firefighters are equipped with advanced rescue boats and specialized gear to save lives in flood emergencies. Kimble says they are some of the most qualified and dedicated individuals around.

Cut 10 (10) “…go help somebody.”

Their mission supports overwhelmed local crews, with deployment duration based on ongoing needs. Kimble commended the rapid response of Governor Jeff Landry to approve the 14-day deployment.

Cut 11 (12) “…continue the operation.” 

LEAP test results show progress among younger learners, but a slight decline in those closer to graduation. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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It is Fourth of July weekend, and the State Fire Marshal’s office is urging those who plan to light up the sky to do so safely. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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The latest LEAP test results show that overall student proficiency among students in grades three through eight is up a percentage point, with 35-percent achieving Mastery or above. Erin Bendily, the senior vice president of the Pelican Institute, says the state has come a long way, but the job is not done yet. She notes that when students through high school are factored in, the results are flat. 

Cut 3 (14) “…the last year.”

Bendily says while it’s important to get younger students off to a good start in their education, it’s also important not to neglect high school students. She says in some regards, it’s even more important for those students to be performing at grade level.

Cut 4 (10) “…in the workplace.”

Bendily says while the state has certainly come a long way in the last few years, the state still has a ways to go to get to where it needs to be.

Cut 5 (14) “…will soon face.”

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Tragedy in West Baton Rouge Parish as a little Port Allen girl drowns in a neighbor’s swimming pool. The sheriff’s office says three-year-old Jacie Lee walked out of the garage of her home at around four yesterday afternoon while her family was inside. Sergeant Landon Groger says following an intense search, a deputy found the nonverbal girl unresponsive in her neighbor’s pool.

Cut 6 (11) “…apparent drowning.”

The Sheriff’s Office considers the drowning an accident, and the incident remains under investigation.  Groger urges parents to be aware of where their children are a all times.

Cut 7 (10) “…of the garage.”

The loss has deeply affected the family and community, including responding deputies. Groger reminds everyone to be safe and have a designated person watching children this Fourth of July weekend.

Cut 8 (12) “…in your prayers.”

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Fireworks will be popping tonight and tomorrow as America celebrates its 249th birthday. State Fire Marshal spokesperson Ken Pastorick says if you plan to shoot fireworks, make sure you are 200 feet away from buildings and vehicles, never let children handle fireworks, light one firework at a time and do not use fireworks impaired by alcohol or drugs.

Cut 9 (10)  “…eleven deaths.”

Pastorick says there are more than 600 retail fireworks stands that are permitted statewide. He says Louisiana law requires all wholesale and retail fireworks sellers to be properly licensed by the State Fire Marshal’s office…

Cut 10 (07) “…fireworks stand.”

Pastorick says suspicious or illegal sales can be reported to the state…

Cut 11 (10) “…5452.” (2nd time)

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Planning a 4th of July barbecue? Expect higher prices for some staples, with beef up seven-percent, ground beef up ten-percent and potatoes and pork n beans also costing more, according to Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain.

Cut 12 (11) “…over a year ago.”

Strain urges consumers to focus on local, in-season options like fresh corn, Creole tomatoes, and Louisiana watermelon, which are abundant. He says other meat prices have been up year over year.

Cut 13 (06)  “…ham over 4-percent.”

Strain says the American Farm Bureau Federation estimates that an average cookout for ten people will cost about 70-dollars. Strain says for grocery prices to drop, more stability is needed in the market.

Cut 14 (10) “…input cost.”

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The U-S House gave final legislative passage today to President Trump’s sweeping tax cut and spending bill. House Speaker Mike Johnson says the One Big Beautiful Bill will permanently lower taxes for families and businesses, secures the border and unleashes American energy dominance…

Cut 15 (10) “…you vote today.”

The vote was 218 to 214, with two Republicans breaking party-lines to vote against the legislation. Every single Democrat in the House voted against the measure. New Orleans Democratic Congressman Troy Carter says Trump’s Big Ugly Bill will increase energy costs by 400-dollars per household, give tax breaks to the rich, rips away health coverage from 17 million Americans.

Johnson says the One Big Beautiful Bill will provide tax relief for the middle class and save every American from a tax increase…

Cut 16 (10) “…on the bill.”

A Facebook scam rears its ugly head in Louisiana, and at least one person is out a lot of money. Colleen Crain reports.

Cut 1 (35) “…I’m Colleen Crain.”

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The attorney general of Louisiana files a trio of lawsuits against CVS. Andrew Greenstein reports.

Cut 2 (35) “…I’m Andrew Greenstein.”

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Glen West of 247Sports says LSU has the talent to make another run to Omaha next season. Kace Kieschnick has more.

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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As the old adage goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. That’s what the Better Business Bureau is saying as it warns you of a scam involving mobile home sales. Carmen Million, the president of the Better Business Bureau serving South Central Louisiana, says a seller going by the name Rose Harvey Mobile Homes created a fake Facebook listing using real mobile home photos, luring real would-be buyers.

Cut 4 (13) “…even in existence.”

The Better Business Bureau has received several complaints about this company, with one person reporting a loss of 35-hundred dollars. Million says when conducting any business, there are many red flags to watch out for.

Cut 5 (12) “…a red flag.”

Million says the shipping cost that the so-called company quoted should have set off alarm bells too.

Cut 6 (12) “…15-hundred dollars anywhere.”

And Million says whenever possible, pay with a credit card. Otherwise, if there’s an issue, the money is as good as gone.

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Attorney General Liz Murrill has filed three lawsuits against CVS. One of them stems from the text message CVS sent to people on June 11th, urging them to contact their legislator and oppose House Bill 358. Murrill said CVS used private patient information to send the text messages.

Cut 7 (17) “…your health care.”

HB 358, which ultimately died when time ran out on the session, had a provision tacked on at the last minute that would have banned pharmacy benefit managers from owning pharmacies. CVS said in the text blast would have forced it to close all stores statewide. Murrill said CVS’ texts were full of misinformation.

Cut 8 (14) “…to pay more.”

The other two lawsuits Murrill filed allege that CVS’ abuse of pharmacy benefit managers manipulates drug prices, and CVS’ business practices drives independent pharmacies out of business.

Cut 9 (10)  “…out of business.”

In a statement, CVS says it sent the text messages in accordance with the law and because it was important for people to know about a potential disruption to its operations. It says Murrill’s allegations of manipulation of drug prices have no merit, and its business model delivers value to its customers.

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U-S Senator Bill Cassidy says he prefers the House version of the Big Beautiful Bill over the Senate’s version because the Senate is looking at cutting Medicaid to the point that it threatens rural hospitals, and some people could lose their insurance. Cassidy says the House version freezes the Medicaid provider tax…

Cut 10 (12) “…understand that.”

Cassidy says the Senate bill is a starting point and negotiations will continue between Republican lawmakers.  The Big Beautiful Bill will make the president’s 217 tax cuts permanent and Cassidy its passage will deliver the largest tax cut for working families in the nation’s history…

Cut 11 (07) “…of this magnitude.”

Cassidy says the Big, Beautiful Bill also reduces taxes on tips and overtime…

Cut 12 (13) “…on overtime.”

The President has asked Congress to pass the Big, Beautiful Bill by July 4^th.

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LSU may have won its eighth national championship just a few days ago, but head coach Jay Johnson and his staff are already hard at work putting together next year’s roster to defend their title. Glen West of 247Sports says the Tigers are still loaded with enough talent to make another run. The centerpiece will be freshman pitcher Casan Evans.

Cut 13 (09)  “…next year.”

The biggest question mark will be what the infield looks like around shortstop Stephen Milam. Incoming transfers Brayden Simpson out of High Point and Kansas State’s Seth Darder will compete with LSU’s always-talented freshman class. West says some returning bench pieces could be in the mix as well.

Cut 14 (13) “…and third.”

Priority one will be keeping names out of next month’s MLB Draft. Center fielder Chris Stanfield and right-handed pitcher Zac Cowan would be key contributors next season if they choose to stay in Baton Rouge. West identified D-H Ethan Frey as another target.

Cut 15 (13) “…little bit.”

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The Pelicans hold the seventh and twenty-third overall picks in tonight’s NBA draft. New Orleans and new Head of Basketball Operations Joe Dumars made a splash yesterday, trading veterans C-J McCollum and Kelly Olynyk to the Wizards for young guard Jordan Poole and wing Saddiq Bey. With room for improvement across the roster, Jake Madison of the Locked On Pelicans Podcast thinks the team will go best available at No. 7.

Cut 16 (17) “…direction I think.”

One target for the Pelicans that could bolster an undersized frontcourt is 18-year-old Duke center Khaman Maluach. Madison says the South Sudanese seven-footer offers rim protection last year’s first-round pick Yves Missi can’t.

Cut 17 (13)  “…high on.”

Another prospect linked to New Orleans has been freshman Oklahoma guard Jeremiah Fears. With starting point guard Dejounte Murray expected to be out with a torn Achilles until January, Madison says the Pelicans need a true playmaking guard.

Cut 18 (16)  “…exceptionally well.”

Madison says some names to watch for New Orleans at pick 23 are Florida guard Walter Clayton Jr. Colorado State guard Nique Clifford and Stanford center Maxime Raynaud.