The Wild Card: Jamie LaBranche for United States Senate, Louisiana 2026 – Representing All the People

I am excited to throw my hat and hip boots into the ring and officially announce my candidacy for United States Senate in Louisiana.Over the past few months, I have traveled statewide, engaging with supporters from all parties and no-party voters who are ready to back our grassroots campaign and vote for LaBranche for Senate. In the past, I have never accepted a single penny for my campaigns. My approach has always been about hard work—knocking on doors, attending fairs and events, visiting farms and families. This old-fashioned dedication resonates with supporters. I will not ask for your money or request public displays of support with signs. You may be thinking, "You need money to win." However, I received over 347,000 votes in the past without spending a dime. Word of mouth is free and highly effective.My commitment to voters is simple: I will address the needs of all the people. When you call, write, or share your concerns with me in person, I will respond quickly, professionally, and with results—period.Key Issues to AddressFirst, we must tackle unconstitutional ballot access restrictions for "No Party" candidates, who represent 808,620 voters—enough to win outright and justify their own closed primary, just like Republicans and Democrats. The requirement of 2,500 signatures places an undue burden on ballot access for some candidates, particularly those with no party affiliation.Additionally, the Secretary of State’s decision to raise the U.S. Senate candidacy entry fee from $900 to $3,500 disproportionately affects grassroots campaigns and discriminates against candidates of modest means who are eager to make a difference. The Secretary of State should consider introducing an "In Forma Pauperis" (IFP) status to level the playing field.I am also awaiting a public records request for a copy of the confirmation from the United States Attorney General or the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, required under Section 2 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, prior to Governor Landry signing Bill 17 on "Closed Party Elections." This document, which should bear a seal and date, was mandated under the Biden administration before the bill was signed into law.

It's time to fully legalize cannabis in the United States. The country is missing out on billions of dollars in tax revenue from this emerging industry. To understand this process, consider the alcohol industry, which offers hundreds of choices. Similarly, cannabis ranges from Charlotte's Web, a sativa strain for epileptic seizures, to Purple Kush, a pure indica strain, and everything in between. Legalization would ensure quality assurance, which is critical for user safety. Currently, medical cannabis shops may cut corners, potentially leading to dangerous laced products. Farmers in every state could grow cannabis, yielding high profits per acre, and partner with companies like Reynolds American Inc. for distribution.

Economic and Agricultural Reform: Eliminate outdated 1942 Acts of Congress that prevent growing certain crops in the United States. This will create jobs, support farmers with new crops, and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains for medicines. Since 1967, companies like Johnson & Johnson have grown certain medicinal crops in Australia, driving up costs through middlemen. I support “Drill, Baby, Drill” to regain U.S. energy and economic independence across all sectors, including allowing Big Pharma to establish domestic refining operations.

Natural Disaster Protections: In the wake of Hurricane Ida, which devastated Louisiana, including St. John Parish, foreclosure mills have exploited homeowners displaced by natural disasters. I will introduce a bill to ban foreclosures for three years following a natural disaster, giving residents time to rebuild without losing their homes.

Contact

Jamielabranche@yahoo.com