Member-only story
Covid-19 Claims Recently Elected Louisiana Congressman at 41
“COVID-19 has taken Congressman-elect Letlow from us far too soon. I am heartbroken that he will not be able to serve our people as a U.S. Representative,” said Gov. John Bel Edwards.
Congressman-elect Luke Letlow, who won a runoff to represent Louisiana’s 5th congressional district, died Tuesday from complications of COVID-19. Letlow, 41, announced that he tested positive for Covid-19 on Dec. 18 and was admitted to a Monroe hospital the following day. When his condition intensified, he was transferred to the intensive care unit.
Letlow served as chief of staff for the former Rep. Ralph Abraham before winning his election this past November. Letlow would have been sworn into Congress on Sunday. He is the first member or member-elect to die from the coronavirus, though dozens of lawmakers have tested positive over the past year.
“The family appreciates the numerous prayers and support over the past days but asks for privacy during this difficult and unexpected time,” said Andrew Bautsch, Letlow’s spokesman. “A statement from the family along with funeral arrangements will be announced at a later time.”
Letlow leaves behind his wife, Julia Barnhill Letlow, and two young children, according to a statement on Facebook from Bautsch.