House passes legislation to rename Rayville post office in memory of Luke Letlow
RAYVILLE, La. (KNOE) - UPDATE 5:23 p.m. According to Congresswoman Julia Letlow, the bill to rename the Rayville post office building in honor of Luke Letlow has passed the House of Representatives. The representative says the bill received unanimous bipartisan votes in honor of her late husband, Congressman-elect Letlow.
In a statement, Rep. Julia Letlow said “I’m so deeply touched that my colleagues in the House, particularly Majority Leader Steve Scalise, put forth this incredible tribute to Luke. My late husband dedicated his life to making Louisiana’s 5th District a better place. Luke’s purpose was always driven by people and his passion was public service. As someone who deeply loved Richland Parish and spent countless hours learning about its history, I know he would consider it the recognition of a lifetime to have the Post Office named in his honor, and our family is so proud to see this fitting memorial to his legacy in the place we call home.
Letlow, the potential namesake of Rayville’s post office, was a Northeast Louisiana native and spent his career working in state politics. He was elected in 2020 to represent the 5th Congressional District of Louisiana but died of complications from COVID-19 before being sworn into office.
Speaker Mike Johnson spoke in support of House Resolution 7423, remarking on Letlow’s impact on Louisiana before his death.
“He had spent his entire professional career serving the people of Louisiana in the Governor’s office and our Congressional delegation,” Johnson said. “There was no greater ambassador of Louisiana culture and values, and I have no doubt that he would have been a leading member of our delegation and of Congress.”
Johnson said Letlow had a passion for everything Louisiana offers. He also noted Letlow’s overarching passion for his family.
“I don’t remember having many conversations with Luke that didn’t involve his family. He was so proud of them,” Johnson said. “I know he is smiling down upon his wife Julia, our extraordinary colleague who has been such an asset to this institution and a great champion for our state. Their two children Jeremiah and Jacqueline -- who have become fixtures around here -- are blessed to have incredible role models as parents.”
The resolution, sponsored by Representative Steve Scalise (R-La.), was debated on the House floor on May 6. Representatives did not come to a final vote, and further proceedings on the motion were postponed.