December 30, 2020
Louisiana, and indeed America, have lost a rising political star with the passing of Luke Letlow. That he was born to politics cannot be doubted. Although still a young man of forty-one, he had capably served on the staff of Congressman Bobby Jindal, then on Governor Jindal’s personal staff, and most recently as Ralph Abraham’s chief of staff.
By all accounts he had paid his dues and mastered the art of politics along the way.
His December 5th election to Congress was seen by all who knew him as a natural progression in the career of a man who actually did enjoy serving his constituents in the very best traditions of American democracy. We all expected that he would go far in politics, and quickly.
If politics can be a brutal game, Luke Letlow had a way of softening its effects on those around him. His kindly personality was an immediate clue to the man’s inherent decency and humanity. While on my way to a late night political meeting with him several years ago, I realized I was not so much preparing to endure another meeting as I was looking forward to seeing Luke again. He was that rare person you looked forward to seeing at all times and under any circumstances.
Above all, Luke must be remembered as the loving husband and father that he was. To his wife, Julia, and his two young children, Jeremiah and Jacqueline, we send our heartfelt condolences.
Luke Letlow will be dearly missed by all who knew him. May we find comfort in his memory as we draw strength from his example.
Louis Gurvich, Chairman
Republican Party of Louisiana
