Friends, did you watch the debate Thursday? One thing was abundantly clear to me: My opponents have no idea how state government works, and they have no idea how to deal with the important issues facing everyday Louisianans.

To solve problems in state government, you need to have a deep understanding of your state's problems and the possible solutions to fix them. It's not enough to say that you're going to cut taxes and create jobs with the wave of a hand. It's not enough to say that you're a "conservative outsider" who will simply do everything "more effectively." Improving the lives of Louisianans requires a thoughtful, detailed approach – one that I don't think my opponents are capable of.

I'm proud of what my administration has done for, and with, Louisiana. That's why I won't shy away from my opponents' attacks, whether they're confused, misleading or totally fabricated. I truly believe that Louisiana is on the right path forward, and we can't turn back now. But the fact is, we need resources to get our message out, especially with so many attacks and falsehoods flooding the airwaves. Will you chip in right now to help us out?

The folks on my finance team have a big reporting deadline coming up on the 22nd, and they're a little stressed out. They set a goal of raising $40,000 from grassroots donations, which would put us in a good spot to finish this campaign strong. But with only a day to go, we're all worried that we'll come up short.

Please, friends, if you think this state is on the right path, will you consider donating $5 to my campaign for reelection? Anything you can spare would mean so much to me.

Thanks again for your generosity. I'll see you on the trail.

–John Bel