It’s been a quiet governor’s race so far, but a political analyst says expect that to change very shortly…
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Small business optimism is up, but the National Federation of Independent Business calls for a change in the governor’s mansion. Kevin Barnhart has the story.
cut 2 (28) I’m Kevin Barnhart”
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With the legislative session in the books, the state’s political focus shifts to the governor’s race and the October 12th primary. It’s been a quiet race so far, with little ad spending from Governor Edwards and his two Republican opponents, but political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says expect that to change, and soon…
The governor’s race four years ago was a bloodbath that featured a slate of Republicans who tore into former Senator David Vitter, over his personal life. Pinsonat says this year the candidates don’t have the same vulnerabilities on the personal front so…
Governor Edwards is challenged by Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone.
Only one Republican will make it through to a potential November 16th run-off against the governor. As the clock ticks down and a GOP frontrunner emerges, there’s a chance the odd Republican out could start getting feisty.
A run-off would be necessary if none of the three candidates earn more than 50 percent of the vote.
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Small business optimism is up according to the National Federation of Independent Business. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says business owners in Louisiana are feeling better now that the 2019 legislative session is in the rearview mirror.
Cut 6 (07) “…any damage anymore.”
Starns says in addition to the wrap up of the legislative session, the new tax code on the national level is contributing to the rise.
Cut 7 (10) “…into their business.”
Starns says that with the growth in optimism, comes bigger hiring numbers as well as pay increases for those on the payroll of small businesses.
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Governor Edwards signed legislation today that will bring ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft statewide. Uber spokesperson Evangeline George says this law will help increase tourism throughout the state as there are visitors who are interested in seeing more than just the big city sights.
Previously, ridesharing services only operated in the state’s major cities and not present in many rural and suburban communities, or Alexandria. George says they had success expanding into rural areas once similar legislation passed in other states.
But the service will not be immediately ready in communities that were not already receiving the service. George says there are a few steps left to be completed.
Cut 11 (08) “…the law”
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A Houma man is dead after State Police say he wrecked his car into a tree following another crash where he fled the scene. Trooper Jared Sandifer says 44-year-old Ricky Giroir Jr. was driving a Dodge Durango southbound on Highway 315 in Terrebonne when the initial crash happened.
Cut 12 (10) “…that fatal crash.”
Sandifer says investigators are uncertain why Girior fled from the initial crash, adding the investigation continues.
Cut 13 (08) “…sample was taken.”
Sandifer says Girior’s death is a reminder to motorists that it is never a good idea to leave the scene of an accident.