A Note from the Desk of Congresswoman Julia Letlow

As the government shutdown continues, my top priority remains standing up for Louisiana families, farmers, and workers who are feeling its effects. From visiting with veterans and volunteers to fighting for food assistance programs, I’m working every day to help our communities navigate this challenging time and to push for a responsible solution that reopens the government.

Despite challenges in Washington, I’ve been able to travel the 5th District lately and listen to Louisianans. From celebrating the achievements of Baton Rouge Magnet High School students to supporting Louisiana’s agricultural producers and welcoming new leadership at LSU, I continue to be inspired by the people I represent.

Sincerely,

Julia Letlow, Ph.D.
Member of Congress

The Government Shutdown Continues

The government shutdown has lasted for over a month, hurting families, federal workers, veterans, and small businesses across Louisiana. This shutdown began after Senate Democrats blocked the House-passed funding bill that kept the government open. Back in September, I voted for this responsible, bipartisan measure to prevent the shutdown. We need to put an end to partisan political games, reopen the government, and restore federal assistance for families in need. In the meantime, I remain committed to helping Louisiana families navigate the challenges caused by this unnecessary shutdown.

Visiting All Corners of the 5th District

I always enjoy spending time in Tangipahoa Parish! I had the opportunity to visit Hammond this week to listen to constituents and gather feedback. One meeting I held included area veterans, where we discussed VA care and the need to reopen the government so that all VA services can resume. While in Hammond, I stopped by WTTG Radio to discuss the government shutdown and how it’s impacting regular folks.

Supporting Food Assistance Providers

Our food banks are stepping up to support families in need during the shutdown. This week I visited St. Vincent de Paul in Baton Rouge to serve meals and spend time with the selfless volunteers dedicated to helping their friends and neighbors. Despite these circumstances, we must do all we can to lend a helping hand during this difficult time. It’s time to stop the political games and reopen the government so we can restore full food assistance and ensure that programs like Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits continue without interruption. Watch coverage from my visit to St. Vincent de Paul HERE.

Fighting for Louisiana Farmers

President Trump and Secretary Rollins are working tirelessly to open new markets for trade, and Louisiana farmers stand ready to meet the growing global demand for soybeans. We must continue to diversify market access and create new opportunities for our producers. In late October, I sent a letter to Secretary Rollins highlighting the ongoing challenges U.S. soybean producers face due to shifting global trade patterns and changes in purchasing behavior by major buyers, such as China. Recently, President Trump announced a new trade agreement with China that includes a commitment to purchase 12 million metric tons of U.S. soybeans in November and December 2025, and 25 million metric tons annually over the next three years. This deal will come alongside a reduction in tariffs, and a commitment from China to crack down on deadly fentanyl shipped to the United States. While this is welcome news, we also must expand market access for farmers in other growing nations in addition to China. You can learn more about my advocacy for our farmers here.

Supporting Education in Louisiana

I always enjoy spending time with America’s future leaders! I had the pleasure of meeting a great group of civic-minded students at Baton Rouge Magnet High School to hear their thoughts on the issues facing our country. I was also honored to receive the Magnet Schools Champion of Excellence Award for my advocacy in expanding access to high-quality education opportunities. Additionally, I want to extend a warm welcome and congratulations to the LSU System’s new President, Wade Rousse, who currently serves as President of McNeese State University, and James Dalton, LSU’s new Chancellor and the current Provost at the University of Alabama. I look forward to learning more about their vision to guide LSU into a bright new chapter for our students and our state.

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