Congresswoman Julia Letlow has formed a senior campaign team filled with well-known figures in Louisiana politics as she prepares for her U.S. Senate race. Letlow aims to unseat incumbent Senator Bill Cassidy in the upcoming Republican primary scheduled for May 5, 2024. Her entry into the race, following an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, has galvanized her supporters.
At the helm of Letlow’s campaign is former Congressman Ralph Abraham, who will serve as campaign chair. Abraham, a physician and former health secretary for Governor Jeff Landry, recently stepped down from his role at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. He returned to Richland Parish to care for a family member. Abraham previously ran for governor in 2019 but was unsuccessful. He expressed confidence in Letlow’s leadership, stating, “Julia Letlow has demonstrated principled leadership and a tireless commitment to Louisiana. She is the proven conservative fighter our state needs in the U.S. Senate, and I am proud to lead the effort to help send her there.”
Letlow has also enlisted Kyle Ruckert as her general consultant. Ruckert, who was formerly the chief of staff for Governor Landry, continues to support Landry’s re-election efforts as chair of Protect Louisiana Values, a political group advocating for Landry’s agenda. His background includes serving as chief of staff for the former Republican Senator David Vitter.
Longtime ally Andrew Bautsch has been named senior adviser to the campaign. Bautsch has a history of supporting Letlow, having served as executive director of the Louisiana Republican Party and as an adviser during her three terms in Congress. He previously worked with Letlow’s late husband, Luke Letlow, who won a congressional seat but passed away from COVID-19 before he could take office.
As the campaign unfolds, Letlow’s team includes other notable members:
– Tony Fabrizio from Fabrizio, Lee & Associates will serve as the lead pollster.
– John Brabender of BrabenderCox will handle media relations.
– Parker Carey has been appointed campaign manager.
– Katherine Thordahl will act as communications director.
– Ryan Smith is responsible for direct mail efforts.
– Javin Fulson will take on the role of political director.
– Kelly Husted and Amanda Buchanan Hand will oversee fundraising efforts in Louisiana and Washington, D.C., respectively.
– Jenny Drucker and Alex Lawhon will focus on national fundraising.
Letlow expressed her confidence in her team, stating, “Each of these individuals brings experience, integrity, and a deep dedication to securing our border, unleashing American energy, growing our economy, and protecting Louisiana families.” As the campaign progresses, Letlow aims to solidify her position as a leading candidate in the Republican primary, with a well-structured team ready to support her vision for the state.
