News

Louisiana Rep.-elect hospitalized as a precaution for COVID-19 infection

by Sarah Polus

Rep.-elect Luke Letlow (R-La.), has been hospitalized following a COVID-19 diagnosis, according to the News Star.

Letlow announced on social media Friday that he had tested positive for the coronavirus and was quarantining in accordance with guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 

“Thank you to everyone for your kind words and prayers,” he wrote. “I have tested positive for COVID-19. I’m at home resting, following all CDC guidelines, quarantine protocols, and the recommendations of my doctors.” 
 

Letlow was admitted to the hospital the next day, out of an abundance of caution according to the Louisiana newspaper. 

“As a precaution and under the recommendation of his doctors, Congressman-Elect Luke Letlow is being admitted to the hospital (Saturday) for monitoring as he is treated for COVID-19,” Andrew Bautsch, a spokesman for Letlow, told the News Star.

Bautsch also has contracted the disease.

Letlow won the Pelican State’s 5th District seat during the Dec. 5 runoff race and is set to be sworn into office in January.

The news of Letlow’s diagnosis comes days after two other Louisiana lawmakers and leaders tested positive for COVID-19.

President-elect Joe Biden’s transition team announced that Biden advisor Democratic Louisiana Rep. Cedric Richmond had tested positive for the virus earlier this week.

Louisiana Republican Lt. Gov. Billy Nungesser also announced that he was positive on Thursday, according to U.S. News & World Report.