Pelican Institute Previews Key Fights Ahead of Louisiana’s 2026 Legislative Session

Daniel Erspamer from the Pelican Institute previewed the biggest political storylines ahead of Louisiana’s 2026 legislative session. He pointed to the Public Service Commission races as a major focus, especially with Baton Rouge residents furious over soaring Delta Utilities gas bills. The Pelican Institute hosts a candidate forum today for Districts 1 and 5. Erspamer revealed early polling numbers for the Republican U.S. Senate primary. Bill Cassidy leads with 30 percent, while Julia Letlow and John Fleming trail close together at 16 and 15 percent. He expects the race to tighten as campaigns begin spending heavily. He also flagged a brewing fight over Louisiana’s GATOR education program. He argued that the plan gives families more choice by allowing state dollars to follow students to the schools that fit them best. He warned that other states continue to expand similar programs while Louisiana risks falling behind. The Pelican Institute’s Solutions Summit kicks off today, bringing together policy experts and state leaders. Walter Isaacson will headline the event with a talk about his new book. Erspamer described the summit as the final “preseason game” before the session begins next week.