Republican Julia Letlow easily won a special election for the 5th Congressional District in Louisiana on Saturday after the death of her husband Luke Letlow in December.
Luke Letlow, a Republican, was elected in a special race in December, but died weeks later due to coronavirus complications before taking office.
Julia Letlow knocked out 11 other candidates for the SU seat.
“It’s an incredible moment, and it’s really hard to put into words,” Letlow said in a statement after her victory was announced. “Born out of the terrible tragedy of losing my husband, Luke, it became my mission in his honor to carry the torch and serve the good people of Louisiana’s 5th District.”
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Julia Letlow, widow of Republican US Representative Luke Letlow, speaks to press members in Baton Rouge, La., January 21, 2021. (Associated Press)
Letlow is the first Republican congressman from Louisiana.
Former President Trump endorsed Julia Letlow earlier this month, who looked at agricultural issues and conservative values, and reiterated his support earlier this month.
“Julia Letlow is outstanding and so needed to help save our second amendment, at the border, and for our military and veterinarians,” Trump said. “Louisiana, go out and vote today – she will never disappoint! Julia has my full and complete endorsement.”
She was also endorsed by the state GOP and raised more money than all her competitors combined. It was the first bid for election by the higher education administrator living in the small town of Start in the Richland parish.
Luke Letlow is seen in Baton Rouge, La., July 22, 2020. Letlow won a US seat from the US last year, but died of COVID-19 before he could take office. (Associated Press)
Luke Letlow died suddenly on December 29, 2020, at the age of 41 from complications of COVID-19. He was to be sworn in on January 3rd.
John Bel Edwards, governor of Louisiana, a Democrat, congratulated Julia Letlow on what he said should be a proud but bitterly sweet day.
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“She continued to illustrate his strength, determination and determination following a terrible tragedy. I know that the same qualities that have plagued her over the past few months will make her an excellent supporter of Louisiana in Washington,” the Democratic governor said. said in a statement.
Letlow received 65% of the vote, while Democrat Sandra “Candy” Christophe received about 27% of the vote. Her husband won in December by a similar margin.
The late Luke Letlow is seen with Julia Letlow and their children in an undated photo.
Letlow announced her candidacy in January, a move that left out other high-ranking Republicans who expressed their interest in the seat.
According to data submitted to the Federal Electoral Commission, she raised more than $ 680,000 for the race. Her closest fundraiser, Christophe, raised $ 75,000. Christophe is a social worker from Alexandria who also played successfully against Luke Letlow.
The 5th district covers all or part of 24 congregations, including the cities of Alexandria and Monroe.
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In Louisiana, all candidates, regardless of party, compete in the by-election. If no candidate receives 50% of the votes, a by-election is held between the two leading voters.
Together with his wife, Letlow left behind two children.
The race for the deep blue 2nd District, which will also be held on Saturday, will go after a late April to replace Democrat Cedric Richmond who left Congress to become a White House adviser to President Biden.
Democrats Karen Carter Peterson and Troy Carter will face April 24.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.