Congresswoman Julia Letlow has unveiled her senior campaign team for the upcoming U.S. Senate race against incumbent Bill Cassidy. The election is set for May 5, 2024, and Letlow, who entered the race in January after securing the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, aims to gain a competitive edge with a lineup of seasoned political operatives.
At the forefront of Letlow’s campaign is former Republican Congressman Ralph Abraham, who has been appointed as campaign chair. Abraham, a physician, recently resigned from his position at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control to address family obligations in Richland Parish. He previously served as Louisiana’s health secretary and surgeon general and made an unsuccessful bid for governor in 2019. In a statement, Abraham emphasized Letlow’s commitment to Louisiana, stating, “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’s campaign strategy will be directed by Kyle Ruckert, who formerly served as chief of staff to Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry. Ruckert remains engaged in Landry’s re-election efforts as chair of Protect Louisiana Values, a political group advocating for the governor’s agenda. His background also includes a tenure as chief of staff for former Louisiana Republican Senator David Vitter.
Another key figure in the campaign is Andrew Bautsch, a longtime ally of Letlow. Bautsch previously held the role of executive director of the Louisiana Republican Party and has acted as a senior adviser throughout Letlow’s congressional career. He also supported Letlow’s late husband, Luke Letlow, who was elected to Congress but passed away due to COVID-19 before he could be sworn in.
The campaign team further includes a number of specialists, such as Tony Fabrizio of Fabrizio, Lee & Associates as lead pollster, and John Brabender of BrabenderCox overseeing media relations. Additionally, Ryan Smith of Rapid Loop Companies will manage direct mail efforts, while Parker Carey serves as the campaign manager. The team is rounded out by Katherine Thordahl, the communications director; Javin Fulson, the political director; and fundraising experts Kelly Husted and Amanda Buchanan Hand for Louisiana and Washington, D.C., respectively. National fundraising initiatives will be supported by Jenny Drucker and Alex Lawhon.
Letlow expressed 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 unfolds, Letlow’s experienced team may prove pivotal in her challenge against Cassidy and fellow Republican candidate John Fleming, Louisiana’s state treasurer. The dynamics of the primary race will continue to evolve as the May election date approaches, setting the stage for a significant political showdown in Louisiana.
