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You are visiting my site on: March 19, 2024

Is there anything that could be done about the outrageous insurance rates that Louisiana drivers and homeowners are paying? The little Southern state leads the entire nation in the high cost of basic insurance. A new legislature has a governor committed to helping the new insurance commissioner with the problem. But can any official really  do anything? I take a look at this issue in my new column that is now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To listen to Jim’s new podcast, go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

 

The Louisiana legislature met recently to find ways to crack down on crime. And yes, there are so many solutions that are being implemented all over America. So what did our Bayou State guys and gals do? They just stuck it to the old guys. Violent crime is taking place all over Louisiana by young thugs; 13 and 14-year-olds carjack, commit our robberies, and even murder. And it’s just not boys. It is often girls joining their gang.  So what should the the legislature have done? I write about it in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

It’s Super Tuesday week with presidential primaries taking place all over the nation. So where is Louisiana in the mix? Irrelevant! Louisiana does not get into the race for president until March 23, several weeks away. By that time, decisions on other candidates have been made all over the nation. Why are we last? Why can’t we be first? We can, and I explain how in my new column. You can take a look at it now by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.

What’s all this talk about being too old to run for public office? OK, OK. Biden and Trump are both pretty old guys. Kind of like me. So are all of us over the hill and not fit to serve in making policy and running the state or the country? Good question! I take a look at this issue in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

A blockbuster sale of Louisiana’s largest insurance company has been put on the back burner, and it’s probably dead on arrival. Well it should be. Hundreds of thousands of policy holders in Louisiana get their health insurance she will cross. I most satisfied. So why the necessary reasoning to sell the company? I know something about this whole operation, haven’t been insurance commissioner and having taken over Blue Cross some years back. That’s the focus of my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

 

There are lots of Louisiana parties in the nations capital last week. The annual Washington Mardi Gras ball. All well and good. Besides partying and asking for campaign contributions, how do your congressman actually vote? Do you know? There are lots of important issues that come up before the Congress. Do you know what position your representatives have taken on, so many national and international issues? I talk about all this in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by ClickingHere.

There is growing support all over the country for either abolishing or restructuring the federal bureau of investigation. The FBI has become an embarrassment for America, and find the respect with countries all over the world. Here’s the latest article from the Future of Freedom Foundation

“Among the worst mistakes America has ever made is to bring into existence the Federal Bureau of Investigation — the FBI.  A national police force is an essential part of any tyrannical regime. Just look at any tyrannical foreign regime, either right wing and left wing, over the past 100 years. I will guarantee you that you will find a national police force. It serves as a useful adjunct to a big military-intelligence establishment to keep people in line.”  To read the whole article of what this national voice has to say, Click Here.

 

Look out, are you Swifties and you Mega supporters.  The election police may be after you. That’s right, the new Supreme Court decision has determined that it’s OK to prohibit people from The election police may be after you. That’s right, the newif you do, you will be kicked out of the building both. Is this a violation of free speech? Take a look at my new column. I posted to see what you think. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here

                                                                                      New Podcast now ready for listening at www.datelinelouisiana.com.

Who wants to hear more complaints about insurance companies and what policyholders are paying? We would all like to leave this problem behind and see that the cost of our insurance drops considerably. You know what? Under present circumstances, ain’t going to happen’.  The present Insurance regulatory environment is the worst I’ve ever seen. And I know something about this. I was insurance commissioner in the 1990s when regulation was a disaster. So the new insurance commissioner has a Big Job ahead to straighten up this mess. If you want to read my thoughts about it, check out my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Here is the first rate well research article on how dangerous the FBI has become in America. You can see some of the information below. You can read the whole article from the Future of Freedom Foundation by Clicking Here.

“Among the worst mistakes America has ever made is to bring into existence the Federal Bureau of Investigation — the FBI.  A national police force is an essential part of any tyrannical regime. Just look at any tyrannical foreign regime, either right wing and left wing, over the past 100 years. I will guarantee you that you will find a national police force. It serves as a useful adjunct to a big military-intelligence establishment to keep people in line.”

Louisiana legislators must be sure glad there’s a big party in Washington DC this weekend, the annual Washington Mardi Gras ball. They can get away from all the controversy they have stirred up back in Baton Rouge.  The new governor called a special session of the legislature to reapportion congressional district. They did so, and wow what a mess they’ve made. Louisiana voters are the losers. You can read all about my thoughts in this weeks column. It’s available by clicking on the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here

The football coach LSU fans both loved and hated, has retired from the game. Some say he was the best there ever was. But like him or  loath him, Coach Nick Sabin was one heck of football coach.  He gave LSU and national championship been retired at our rival, Alabama. I write about Coach Nick in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

All right, all you guys. No slacking off for the New Year. It’s 2:30 AM here and I’m getting psyched up for my 4 o’clock workout. Anybody want to join me? Have a Happy New Year.  JB

 

 

 

So now we have Secretaries of States stripping away former President Donald Trump’s right to run again for president. I did not know that individual states could determine federal elections. And I have some background. I served as Louisiana Secretary of State for eight years.  Will the Supreme Court act to let Trump run? I analyze this issue in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

From our friend John Whitehead at the Rutherford Institute.  Many articles, podcasts and videos about the protection of individual rights at www.rutherford.org.

 

 

Much of what’s going on in the world, as well as the United States, seems to be going to hell in a hand-basket. How are our public officials responding? Right now, just about all of them in Washington on vacation. The president just flew down to the Caribbean to take a week off. Legislators in Washington are being labeled as a “Do Nothings.”  And the Supreme Court is looking forward to a four month summer vacation. What could be wrong with that? I take a look at all of these misgivings in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Well Happy New Year to all of my viewers and listeners. I hope you are looking forward to 2024. I am, because this past year has been somewhat questionable in terms of safety on the international front, common sense in Congress at home, and many problems to address here in Louisiana. Do you make New Year’s resolutions? I certainly do. And I list my resolutions in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here. And Happy New Year to you.

                                                                        You can listen to a new episode of Dateline Louisiana by going to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

Hey, are you in the holiday spirit? My favorite time of year, and the same could be said for many. One of my favorite things about Christmas is to watch several wonderful holiday movies. I’m a real movie buff, and there were lots of choices to choose from. So if you have a favorite holiday movie, you w may want to look over my new column.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here. Merry Christmas.

The FBI again embarrasses itself as one of his former agents confessed to working as a spy for the Russians.  He received a sentence of four years. He should’ve been charged with treason and sentenced for life. Time and time again, in recent years, the FBI has proven to be an embarrassment to our country. A number of members of Congress has suggested we got abolish the whole organization and start again from scratch. To read the whole sorted story of this low life former agent, Click Here.

Book banning? Censoring books that you can read? That happened centuries ago, right? Well, not quite right. There’s a new major effort across the country to ban books that our kids can read, particularly in libraries in schools and public libraries.  Louisiana’s new governor, Jeff Landry, is right in the mix of those who want to put limits on books that can be read. You would be surprised if some of the books have been banned. To read all about it, take a look at my new column just posted.  You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Louisiana has come close to having a Speaker head up the United States House Representatives.  But the potential candidates have never quite made it. Until now. Take a listen to our new podcast to hear the history of speaker candidates coming so close. You can listen by going to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

It’s the holiday season, my favorite time of year. But what’s going on with some of our American colleagues who are now questioning every holiday that takes place. It’s going to be Christmas time. That’s right. The celebration of Christ at Christmas.  But that apparently offends certain elements of our society. So does Easter, Presidents’ Day, Thanksgiving, and a host of other holidays. The heck was remembering our heritage and our history. It’s all about being politically correct. I write about this unfortunate attitude in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

It’s been 60 years since president John F. Kennedy was killed by an assassin in Dallas Texas.  Kennedy began his campaign for president in Louisiana, and always maintained  strong Louisiana ties.  It’s such a tragedy that the dynamic young president was killed right at the height of his career. He could’ve done so much more for the country, and also for Louisiana. I write about his Louisiana connection in this weeks column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Hats off to  Lowe’s Building Supply, a national chain that supplies builders and consumers in stores all over the nation. They honor are veterans. So few businesses do. There are several reserved spots right outside. the front door of Lowe’s where veterans only can park.  Veterans also get a 10% discount and all purchases. Lowe’s is the only building supply warehouse where I will shop. They support veterans like me, and I support them. To heck with those other stores who don’t give a damn about veterans who serve their country.

Isn’t it nice to drive along Louisiana highways and see pile after pile of trash thrown along the side of the road? Let’s face it. Louisiana is a trashy, trashy, trashy state. It’s been like that for years. So what to do? How about another study?  Hogwash!  We have studied trash pick up time after time with no results. It’s time to get tough. Really tough. Check out my new column now posted to see what I think. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To listen to new podcast, go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

Louisiana is under attack. No, not by the terrorists.  Well, yes, to some, they may be terrorists. I’m talking about the assault on the marshes and swampland in the Bayou State by those fuzzy little critters call nutria.  Nutria apparently were released by accident back in the 1930s in the marshes of South Louisiana. They have spread like wildfire. There’s a bounty on their head in Louisiana. So what do we do? I have a novel solution. How’s your appetite? Take a look at my new column now posted and see what you think. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

If you’ve never been to the Red Dragon Listening Room in Baton Rouge, you’ve missed quite a treat. I’ve known Louisiana rock ‘n’ roll singer Marcia Ball for over 40 years. She still got the rhythm, and put on a heck of a performance this past Friday evening. Pictured with us is Chris Maxwell, the amazing owner of the Red Dragon, who always organizes quite a great show.

 

Over the last half century, Time and again a Louisiana congressman has tried to be Speaker of the United States, House of Representatives. Second line of being president of the United States. But despite how closely several members came, no one quite reached the pinnacle. That is until now. Out of the blue, came a little known congressman from Shreveport.  Congressman, Mike Johnson surprised everyone and was elected. And that’s not all. The second spot is being held by Jefferson Parish Congressman Steve Scalise. So little ole’ Louisiana has the two top spots in the House. What are the odds? Read my comments and history in my new column now up. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

For years, the Bayou State has been a minor blip on the political screen in Washington DC. In the state capital, Republicans and Democrats have fought each other, and virtually nothing got done progressively. Let’s see, is all that about the change? Dramatic power shifts are taking place with a new Louisiana governor, and can you believe, a more powerful congressional delegation the most of the other states in the country. Take a look and see my thoughts on thes revolution in Louisiana. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Interesting observations from the recent Louisiana gubernatorial election. First of all, voters don’t seem to care. The turnout was abysmal. Democrats in Louisiana seem to have lost their way. The Democratic party’s efforts to recruit candidates and raise campaign funds was a bust. And you’ve got to give the new governor credit. He put together a heckuva campaign. Check it all out in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To listen to new podcast, go  to www.DatelineLouisiana.com.

This week, in my new column, I review how I had a close call in getting out of Israel. My stay there was both informative and quite pleasant. I made a number of new friends, and relished traveling to a number of historic sites. I started to stay longer, but then a premonition shed in. I said it all out in my new column. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking here.

A pleasant visit with Israeli soldiers several days before the missiles rained down. They sure have their hands full now.

Imposing gag orders is now front page news all over America. Why? Because of the continuing outrageous statements by ex-president Donald Trump. He seems to want to attack everyone, and says the system is being unfair to him. Can and should the courts shut him down?  Like it or not, his right to free speech is guaranteed in our U.S. Constitution. I give my opinion as to  why Trump should not be gagged by any court in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

NEW UPDATE

Just a note to all my column and website readers. I want to thank so many of you for your concern over my safety during my recent trip to Israel. I found the trip extremely informative and spiritually rewarding. In fact, I planned to stay a few extra days since I was so far away in that part of the world. But I had a premonition. Something told me I needed to go on home.  I guess the good Lord was looking out for me.

This is going to be a long and messy war, with the United States and other countries brought in to it.  By the way, my son-in-law Dan Senor, who was a foreign policy advisor to both President Bush and presidential candidate Mitt Romney, is being sought out by numerous media outlets for interviews. Coincidentally, he just published a new book called the Genius of Israel.

 For you New Orleans readers, I will be interviewed about my trip tomorrow morning, Tuesday October 10th, at 8:30 am on WGSO 990-AM and at 10:30 am on WWL radio.

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My thanks to so many of you, read my columns for your emails, your thoughts and prayers, while I was in Israel last week. I left the Holy Land this past Wednesday, October 3ed.  The next night, missiles were launched close to where I was staying.  Here’s what happened. Hamas and Islamic Jihad surprised Israel on Shabbat and the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah with a barrage of 2,000 missiles. From within the cover of the missile attack, Hamas terrorists invaded Israel proper – entering more than 20 communities where they killed 100s of people as well as kidnaping more than 100 civilians – bringing them back to Gaza. There are vast differences between the Palestinian organization Hamas  and Israelites. But certainly, no justification for war. Maybe God was sending me a signal to get on out of Israel. Thanks again for your concerns.

 

Louisiana gubernatorial elections are just around the corner, only days away. Who are the candidates most likely to be in the runoff, and just what kind of election system does Louisiana have? I know a little bit about this having served as Secretary of State, the state’s top elections official. OK, it was many years ago, but I still have some current ideas. And I’m wondering why there are not many fresh ideas coming from those who want to hold the state’s highest office. I write about this concern in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

I am just completing a pilgrimage to Jerusalem in Israel. My stay is at Saint George College, and I am pictured with Rev. Richard Sewell, the Dean. This is a  stop for travelers like me who are exploring my faith. It’s been a rewarding stay, and I will be writing about it extensively in a new book. You can hear my recent podcast about the trip by Clicking Here.

Have you ever felt it was time to perhaps get away from it all, and do a little introspective searching, whatever your priorities might be? As you get along in life, there are choices to be made, and perhaps a review of what all you have or might have done with your life. That’s where I found myself in recent months. Sotoe get a better sense of my own legacy, I decided to make a trip to Jerusalem. I write about this quest in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

When someone is accused of a crime, it’s basic  in a democracy to have a trial or hearing open to the public, just like O. J. Simpson and Watergate back in the 70s. America has a right to witness the trials of anyone as important as an ex president or anyone for that matter.  Should all  public trial open and televised? I talk about this important issue in my new column now posted. You can read it now now by going to the RedFlashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The title hopes of Louisiana’s flagship University, LSU, were dampened in its home opener with a messy lost to Florida State University. I have  followed the highs and lows of LSU football for over 50 years.  What a treat to follow the players who grew up in Louisiana, played high school football, then went on to a great football career and stayed in  Louisiana. No more! Something called the NIL allows players to   make big  bucks and transfer a will to another school.  For  me, it’s just not fun anymore.  See my analysis about LSU football. You could read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

“The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed

(and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by an endless series of hobgoblins, most of them imaginary.”””H.L. Mencken

See chilling article about federal government t abuse and overreach by Clicking Here.

 

Have you listened to the words of the number one country song all of the nation right now? It’s a damn shame what the world’s gotten to, For people like me and people like you.  Country singer Oliver Anthony, a new voice on the music scene, is stirring up lots of controversy in both political parties about his view that the average worker is getting screwed over in this country today. Voices on both sides of the political spectrum have weighed in. It seems like recently we have a lot of country singers that are stirring up political dust. Take a look at my new column where I give my thoughts about Anthony and his music. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To you listen to this new podcast, go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

What a terrible headline. To think that Americans are being spied on at the same rate of citizens in China are. This is a very chilling story that should do deeply concern all American citizens.  To read this whole disgusting article, Click Here.

Anyone who says there is not something different and deeply concerning going on relating to the weather it’s just not being realistic. Maybe it’s climate change or something else, but serious weather related damage is becoming the norm. And unfortunately, the response in the US is not what it should be. We should have  learned some serious lessons after Katrina. But apparently not, when you look at what’s going on in Maui today. I write about my analysis of this serious problem concerning a weak diaster response in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Former President Donald Trump continues to be outlandish in his attacks on his opponents, and his brash style of campaigning for a second term. He viewed by many observers as one of a kind, with a style that is unique. But Is he one of a kind? Is there anyone else out there that emulates Trump’s aggressiveness and self-centered commentary? Well, when do you want to look for someone comparable, where do you look?  Louisiana, of course.  Read this week’s column where Trump is compared to a similar Louisiana lightning rod, Ole’ Huey Long.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

It was just a few weeks ago when country music star, Jason Aldean’s new song, “Try That in a Small Town,” stirred up a great deal of interest, and was quite controversial. Now we have a new challenger for the top spot. Oliver Anthony has a song called “Rich Men north of Richmond” that threw the  gauntlet at lawmakers in Washington DC and all the spending going on. Take a listen and see what you think.

See latest on Louisiana’s insurance problems by Clicking Here.

Promises, promises. For years, the politicians have assured Louisiana policy holders that their car insurance rates would come down. By 25%, said the insurance years ago. The business group LABI also assured drivers that by  cutting back on legal rights, a huge drop would take place for the cost of auto insurance. How wrong they all were. Rates continue to go up; by as much is 38% just this year alone. So is there a solution? Of course there is. Some common sense proposals could cause a significant drop in the cost of auto insurance. That is, if the legislature and the insurance department will pay attention.  Read all my thoughts about this important issue by going to my new column.  You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

To listen to this informative podcast, go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

I’m a huge fan of André Rieu & his Johann Strauss Orchestra. I sure hope I have a chance to see them in person someday in the near future. Take a look at his Orchestra performing together with the 15-year-old Emma Kok. Emma is quite an inspiration as you will learn from this video. Be sure and take a look and listen.

Louisiana continues to be at the bottom of the barrel when it comes to educational reform. So what’s the problem? Why are the Bayou State’s kids so far behind?  It’s not too difficult to figure out. We start way, way too late. And our kids have a hard time catching up. What are other states doing, and what can Louisiana do to be more competitive? I write about problems and solutions in my new column now posted. You can read it by Clicking Here or by going to the Red Flashing Box above.

It seems like there is always a political controversy. Last week, I wrote about liberal whining over the meeting at the new song by Jason Aldean, “Try that in a Small Town.”  Now this week, we will take a look at conservative commentators and politicians  going nuts over a movie. That’s right a movie!  Conservative politicians like Texas Senator Ted Cruz are all upset over the Barbie movie.  GIVE US A BREAK.  You can read all about it in my new column now posted. Go to the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

 

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You can listen to hundred formative podcast on why it’s so darn hot. Join me and my cohost Rannah Gray to listen to this informative discussion. Do you listen go to www.datelinelouisiana.com.

My good friend from college days at the University of North Carolina died recently. Jim Rushton wrote 18 books. He was a historian and novelist, and he provided a 96-page “interrogation” memo for David Frost’s TV interviews that prodded Nixon to admit, “I let the American people down” over Watergate.  He was a great athlete at Carolina, and still holds the record for scoring the most goals in a soccer match there.  We last visited in Linville, North Carolina on his book tour a year ago.  During our Carolina days, Jim and I would have dinner each evening at the Phi Delta Theta fraternity house. I wish our conversations had been recorded as we made a gallant effort to solve most of the world’s problems.  Jim was 82 years old and died of cancer.  I will sure miss my friend of 70 years.  To read his full biography, Click Here.

 

How do you’ve been following the controversy about Jason Aldean’s latest top hits, “Try That in a Small Town?”  The song has critics piling on, particularly those who live in big cities. But Aldean’s new song is taking off like a rocket, and it is leading most of the country related charts.  So what’s all the controversy about I talk about it in my new column, not posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here. And you could also see the video itself below.

 

 

You can listen to our new podcast by going to www.datelinelouisiana.com. This week, we look at our feet issues all of the nation. Martha Stewart in a swimsuit? Give us a break. How to stay  politically correct, and the Donald’s problems keep piling up. So take a listen.

 

 

You wonder just how bad the insurance crisis in Louisiana can continue to be.  Despite promises from the insurance department and from the legislature, the cost of insuring a home or other properties continue to rise. And sometimes the increases are tremendous. Citizens Property Insurance Company is raising rates in New Orleans by as much as 89%. It’s just making insurance  unaffordable for thousands of Louisiana citizens. So what to do? I supply a few suggestions in my new column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Most of us who are a little older have grown up with AM radio.  But it may not be lasting for much longer.  A number of auto companies are not including AM radio in their new vehicles.  And it’s a shame.  Why are they doing this?  Take a look at my new column.  And join me in a walk down AM radio memory.  You can read it now by Clicking Here or going to the Red Flashing Box above.

One of the big problems with the cost of insurance? The failure of the legislature and the insurance department to take aggressive action.  Take a look at the problem  by Clicking Here.

Wow, our Louisiana US Senator John Kennedy has sure stirred up a fire storm in Washington. He’s very aggressively expressed outrage that the Mexican government has not done enough to stop the influx of drugs into Louisiana and the United States. His verbal pitchfork hit home, and a strong response came back from both the Mexican ambassador to the United States as well as the Mexican president himself. Just what did Senator Kennedy say that unleashed such a response? I write about it and give my opinion in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The F.B.I., which investigates many federal crimes, has also become corrupted by the same political forces says the New York Times. “The F.B.I. has become a political weapon for the ruling elite rather than an impartial, law-enforcement agency,” said Kevin D. Roberts, the president of the right-wing Heritage Foundation. See full story by Clicking Here.

 

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So when the Governor leaves the country in Louisiana, who is there to run the show? Is it  the Lt.Governor? Some other state official? No one? There seems to be some question, at least in some observers minds.  When in doubt, we should look to the Louisiana constitution. And I know something about this document, having been a delegate what is written back in 1973. I answer this question in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Check out new podcast at www.datelinelouisiana.com.

 

“Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster.”“” Friedrich Nietzsche

We’re not dealing with a government that exists to serve its people, protect their liberties and ensure their happiness.  Rather, we are the unfortunate victims of the diabolical machinations of a make-works program carried out on an epic scale whose only purpose is to keep the powers-that-be permanently (and profitably) employed.  Case in point: the FBI. See entire article by Clicking Here.

 

 

I’ve been a Southern country lawyer for most of my life. Darn proud of it. But former President Donald Trump seems to think those of us who chose to practice in a rural area aren’t all that bright. He said some things that have raised some questions in my mind as to how much he actually knows about a country law practice. I point out some of these errors of judgment on the part of the former president in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Louisiana has a long and colorful history with France. If you go back over many years, France has been a real ally of America, but there have been  particularly close ties with the Bayou State.  There is still a lot of French spoken in Louisiana, and you can see the French influence in traveling throughout South Louisiana New Orleans. I write about the special relationship in my column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

Louisiana has a long and colorful history with France. If you go back over many years, France has been a real ally of America, but there have been  particularly close ties with the Bayou State.  There is still a lot of French spoken in Louisiana, and you can see the French influence in traveling throughout South Louisiana New Orleans. I write about the special relationship in my column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

You cannot go to Paris, if you are a book lover, and not spend some time at the Shakespeare bookstore on the West Bank by Notre Dame cathedral. It is so famous that people stand in line to get in. I picked up some good ideas for The Lisburn Press and bought way too many books.

 

Newspapers all over America were in a dither a few months ago when a congressman called president Biden a liar right in the middle of the state of the union speech. Apparently, these members of Congress and other officials in Washington have a thin skin. They should never been down to Louisiana and got a taste of Louisiana politics. Lying in the Bayou State is often taken for granted. I write about this condition in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Newspapers all over America were in a dither a few months ago when a congressman called president Biden a liar right in the middle of the state of the union speech. Apparently, these members of Congress and other officials in Washington have a thin skin. They should never been down to Louisiana and got a taste of Louisiana politics. Lying in the Bayou State is often taken for granted. I write about this condition in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Last time Louisiana adopted a new constitution, it was 50 years ago. A great deal has happened in the state since then. There’s rumblings now but it’s time for a new convention. I was a delegate to C 73, and I agree it’s time for a new constitution to be written. I analyze all my thoughts oaths issue in my new column that is now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Did the FBI try to rig the election in 2016 for Hillary Clinton? A special counsel who investigated said it did.  This weeks Wall Street Journal had a headline that said “Damning account of the corruption of the FBI.”  We’ve seen story after story about corruption and incompetence within the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Time for Congress to take some strict action and clean house.  To read a full account, Click Here.

Louisiana is supposedly flush with cash, and some agencies are spending money, well, like drunken sailors? That’s right. The Bayou State has done a poor job of setting priorities and keeping an eye on how the money is spent. I write about two glaring examples in this weeks column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

So many of my friends are getting older. Including me. I just had a birthday, and I reflect back on what makes up the good life. What should be your priorities as you get older? Should one be concerned about  death? Shakespeare says so, but I disagree. I share all these thoughts as I pass the year of 83. Check out my new column. You can read it now but by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

 

The Louisiana legislature is in session right now, and one of the most controversial proposals is to give all legislators a pay raise from $16,800-$60,000. Quite a jump. Now let me say that I think a pay raise is deserving. But they make a lot more than $16,800 when you total up all the benefits. I have first-hand knowledge, as I was a senator, and made a pittance being a legislator. You could read my thoughts and my experience by going to my new column now posted. To read it, click on the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

New Podcast up.  Go to www.DateLineLouisiana.com.

Were you up and about at 5 o’clock am on Saturday? It was really nice of King Charles to have his Coronation on my birthday. I’m having British tea and biscuits.

 

 

It’s hard to see how you can besmirch the FBI anymore. Week after week, there seems to be more disclosures about ineptitude, carelessness, or outright criminal activity by FBI agents and former FBI Agents.  In the latest scandal, a former FBI agent has been arrested and accused of urging a mob of Trump supporters to kill police during the January 6, 2021 attack on the US Capitol. A former agent named Jared Wise was filmed outside the capital calling police officers Nazis and encouraging rioters attacking the police line to “Kill ’em!” Kill ’em!”  “You guys are disgusting.” Then he yells, “You are the Nazi. You are the Gestapo…. Shame on you!”  

Here is the attitude of many FBI agents like Wise.  “There is no good or bad. Only wolves and sheep. Predators and prey.  Many of those in the justice system make their living off giving the wolves their teeth. And the sheep? Well, they get what’s coming to them.”  Makes us really proud of FBI agents doesn’t it?

Louisiana’s gubernatorial election is less than six months away, with a whole slew of candidates, lining up to try to gain the states top prize. There’s a”jungle primary” in the state where every c candidate  runs at the same time, irrespective of party designation. But are  the runoff spots  already taken by one Democrat and one Republican? That’s the focus of this week’s column.  You could read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

It’s been 50 years since the constitutional convention of 1973, and Louisiana’s current constitution was written. I was fortunate to be in that number. Those of us still living, and there are a few, gathered at the Louisiana governor’s mansion for a luncheon and time to look back. Governor Edwards hosted our gathering, and it was a great time to see all friends.

Let’s get ready for the naysayers. That’s right! Louisiana elections are just a few months away. And isn’t it true, as some allege, that the elections are fixed? One who knows what they are doing can certainly infiltrate the voting machines, and change the results of the election.  Or can they? In my new column, now posted, I take a look at the fraud allegations of Louisiana elections. Having served as secretary of state, I know something about this whole controversy. To read my new column, click on the Red Flashing Box above or Click Here.

 

 

 

Louisiana attorney generals common go.  But Richard Ieyoub was a  a special guy. During the 12 years I served as Louisiana’s insurance commissioner, Richard held the office of attorney general. We worked closely together, and I have some fond memories, both when we were in public office, and in later years. He passed away last week. I talk about Richard in my new column now posted. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

The legislature is coming into session this week, and here we go again. All this talk about insurance, and nothing substantive happening. All the proposals so far are nothing more than legislators putting their fingers into the insurance dike that’s about to collapse.  I write about some of the questionable ideas put forth so far, and how nothing has been proposed to give protections for policyholders. You can read my column now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

In Louisiana, it’s always something.  The Bayou State either stirs  up a hornet’s nest, makes a mess, creates a mess, or actually causes the mess.  Causing the mess is the focus of news all across the country as a Baton Rouge gal, porn star Stormy Daniels, has caused former President Donald Trump to be indicted.  Of all the controversy is stirred up by the ex-president, it’s hard to imagine, but a dalliance with a porn star could bring Trump into a courtroom to face state charges in New York City.  This, of course, is the focus of my column this week. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

What on earth is going on in Washington DC? Can you believe that Republican members of Congress are supporting legislation that will give federal control over our local school boards? I’m stunned! What on earth is happening  in our country? And what’s even more shocking is that the lead author on the legislation is from Louisiana. Now yes, we know that there are problems with local school boards, and great controversies over library books, and other ways to teach. But do we  want the federal government, including the US Department of education and the Justice Department meddling in how we run our schools in Louisiana? I hope not. I write about all of this in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to theRed flashing Box above, or by Clicking Here.

Take a look at the video of former football great Peyton Manning, who decides to check into a retirement home. The Manning family lives in New Orleans and are the the first family of football. I think you’ll get a kick out of the video.

Here we go again. The second and third largest bank collapses in America took place last week. The banks were negligent in their lending practices, and did not have enough reserves in place. But why worry about it. After all, the federal government is there to bail them out, like they always seem to do. These banks are supposedly too big to fail, yet when they do, they are the first in line to ask for a government bail out. Billions of dollars paid by, guess who? You and me. I write about poor bank practices and the poor government regulation in my new column now posted. You can read it by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

It’s been 55 years since one of the great American war tragedies took place. It continues to be a stain on America’s image of being honorable and not being vindictive in the time of war. It was the My Lia massacre, and a tragedy of which America should not be proud. But like so often when tragedies happen, some special person rise to the occasion and put a stop to wrongdoing. Such a hero was Colonel Hugh Thompson from Lafayette. I write about his bravery in this week’s column. You can read it now by going to the Red Flashing Box above or by Clicking Here.

From the Wall Street Journal. (Letters to the Editor)

“I always believed that the Covid virus leaked from a Wuhan lab, but now that the FBI has confirmed it, I have my doubts.”  Ken Matthew-Long Beach , Miss.

 

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