GOP representative-elect urges Republicans to get vaccinated after husband’s coronavirus death

Louisiana Republican Rep.-elect Julia Letlow is urging her constituents to get vaccinated against COVID-19 after her husband, the late Louisiana Republican Rep.-elect Luke Letlow, died from the disease.

During a Sunday interview on “Face the Nation,” host Margaret Brennan asked Julia Letlow about the issue of vaccine hesitancy among Republicans. Recent polls have found that Republican men are more likely than any other group to say they won’t receive a coronavirus vaccine.

“I want to be an advocate and a voice for everyone,” Julia Letlow said. “Look at my family. Use my story.”

She added, “COVID can touch every family out there. There is a vaccine that has life-saving capabilities. I want to encourage everyone to trust it and get the vaccine.”

Luke Letlow died of COVID-19 in December after a relatively short battle with the illness. He was 41 years old.

Julia Letlow won the seat left empty by her husband’s death last week after a special election. Her husband had originally won the seat with 64.5 percent of the vote.

Julia Letlow, who gained the support of former President Trump, beat out eight other Republicans to take the seat. 

Her comments come as Louisiana is about to expand its COVID-19 vaccine eligibility. Starting Monday, anyone aged 16 and over will be able to get the vaccine, WDSU News reported.