Mornings with Brian Haldane

Downtown Baton Rouge previews its 250th Independence Day celebration with a full day of riverfront events, live music, and fireworks. The Downtown Development District also highlights ongoing improvements from Plan Baton Rouge 3, including new riverfront paths, streetscape upgrades, and expanded green space to boost downtown accessibility and activity.

ABC Pelican reviews Louisiana's legislative session, highlighting reforms that reduce regulations for contractors, including changes to plumbing licensing. The discussion also covers efforts to block additional regulatory burdens and addresses growing concerns over rising litigation and insurance costs for the construction industry.

Crime Stoppers reminds residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely by avoiding impaired driving, illegal fireworks, and celebratory gunfire. The episode also highlights ongoing investigations, including a missing woman from Zachary, a burglary suspect, and a theft case, while encouraging the public to submit anonymous tips.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill discusses the state's expanding Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, highlighting recent arrests, convictions, and efforts to use AI to detect fraud and protect vulnerable patients. She also explains the launch of a new NIL athlete agent registration portal designed to safeguard student-athletes from exploitation.

Solar power continues to expand across the U.S., thanks to more efficient panels, better battery storage, and lower costs. The discussion explores how solar complements traditional energy sources, the role of consumer demand versus government incentives, and why a diverse energy mix is essential for meeting the nation's growing electricity needs.

As the United States approaches its historic 250th anniversary, we have a unique opportunity to revisit the core values of American independence. Our deep cultural commitment to freedom has consistently driven world-changing innovations, from early aviation to global communications. Remembering that flawed, ordinary individuals built this nation helps us understand the true burden of maintaining a...

A major new Supreme Court decision just completely transformed the campaign landscape by lifting spending caps on coordinated party campaigns. The RNC is instantly capitalizing on the ruling by leveraging its massive cash reserves to buy up low-rate TV ad slots. This financial advantage creates a stark contrast with the opposing party's reported debt struggles heading into crucial battleground rac...

Registered Republicans officially outnumber Democrats in Louisiana for the first time in state history. The shift caps off a two-decade trend of steady Republican gains and monthly Democratic registration declines. Policy shifts on crime, education, and border security are driving "generational Democrats" to switch parties. Party leaders are now pivoting toward the November elections, focusing on...

Attorney Franz Borghardt analyzes a viral neighborhood feud involving Pastor Tony Spell. He explains how public records laws allowed the quick release of explosive police bodycam footage. The discussion shifts to why police took two weeks to book former NFL player Richard Murphy. Listeners get a rare insider look at how lawyers negotiate voluntary surrenders with detectives.

Congressman Troy Carter discussed his EDUCATE Act, which would expand agricultural education for the medical cannabis industry, and celebrated Louisiana's first successful gene therapy cure for sickle cell disease. He also reflected on America's upcoming 250th birthday and the nation's continued progress.

Anna Johnson discussed Louisiana's role in the America250 celebration in Washington, D.C., highlighting the state's leadership in energy innovation, LNG exports, and future nuclear development. She also shared her thoughts on the recent legislative session, emphasizing workforce development as a key priority for Louisiana's economic growth.

Brian Henderson discussed how the Young Ascension Professionals program is helping young adults grow their careers through networking, leadership development, and community involvement. He also highlighted upcoming events, including a networking social at Back 9 Golf and the group's annual Murder Mystery Social.

Louisiana Veterans Affairs Secretary Charlton Meginley discussed proposed GI Bill changes, emphasizing the importance of accredited education and hands-on apprenticeship programs for veterans. He also highlighted Louisiana's role in the America250 celebration and encouraged veterans to take advantage of available benefits and career opportunities.

Jeff Crouere joined Brian Haldane to discuss Louisiana's recent runoff elections, saying Julia Letlow enters the fall Senate race as the favorite but should continue campaigning aggressively. They also examined the influence of campaign spending in the PSC and BESE races, praised John Young's record of public service, and wrapped up with a lighthearted debate over whether king cakes should be sold...

BREC leaders thanked Baton Rouge voters for renewing the park system's millage, saying the funding will support continued improvements to parks, recreation programs, and facilities. They also discussed upcoming projects in Baker, a public meeting on the City-Brooks Community Park master plan, and the continued growth of BREC golf, which saw more than 204,000 rounds played last year.

Following Louisiana's Senate primary, Moon Griffon congratulated Julia Letlow on her decisive victory and said her early endorsement from President Donald Trump proved to be the campaign's biggest advantage. Although he supported John Fleming in the primary, Griffon said he will back Letlow in November and expects most Republican voters to do the same. He also argued that negative advertising hurt...

Low Turnout Dominates Louisiana ElectionLow voter turnout was the biggest takeaway from Louisiana's latest election. Political analyst Scott McKay said strong grassroots organizing proved critical, while campaign messaging focused on issues voters care about most. Julia Letlow won another decisive victory and is expected to unite Republican voters ahead of November.

Dr. Kristen Poniff of Our Lady of the Lake Children's Health shares important Fourth of July safety tips for families. She discusses common summer injuries, firework safety, burn prevention, hydration, heat-related illnesses, and the dangers of leaving children in hot vehicles. Her advice emphasizes adult supervision, staying hydrated, and taking simple precautions to keep kids safe while enjoying...

Central Police Chief Roger Corcoran addresses claims that his department ignored complaints tied to the Life Tabernacle Church dispute. He explains how calls are documented and clarifies that only five related incidents were recorded over four years. Corcoran also outlines the Central Police role in the recent investigation, cooperation with the Sheriff’s Office, and rising public tension followin...

Louisiana Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple discusses lessons from Tropical Storm Arthur, reminding residents to review their insurance coverage before storms develop. He explains named storm deductibles, the importance of flood insurance, and how the Department of Insurance can help consumers with claims and coverage questions.

Mary Stein discusses the East Baton Rouge Parish library millage renewal, emphasizing that it is a continuation of an existing tax, not a new one. She explains how the library's pay-as-you-go funding model has saved taxpayers millions in interest, outlines projects the renewal would support, and reminds all parish voters they are eligible to vote on the measure.

Marine Corps veteran Will Hubbard discusses concerns about the proposed Take Care of America's Veterans Act, arguing that while the bill includes positive reforms, it could weaken GI Bill protections. He warns against expanding fully online trade training, increasing housing allowances without addressing regional costs, and failing to protect veterans from predatory schools that can exhaust their...

Jordan Generous of NeuroJust says summer is a key time to address mental health before fall schedules return. He encourages early evaluation for anxiety and depression, especially for parents, teachers, and students. The conversation highlights transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for depression. Generous explains that TMS targets brain activity linked to...

Louisiana lawmakers closed the session by advancing energy-focused policies aimed at boosting investment, strengthening infrastructure, and supporting long-term economic growth in Louisiana. A key measure, the Louisiana Energy Protection Act, is intended to provide legal certainty for energy companies by limiting certain climate-related lawsuits, which supporters say could encourage major long-ter...

Burke Hughes of the American Red Cross urged Louisiana residents to prepare for hurricane season by making emergency plans, gathering supplies, and establishing communication methods before storms strike. He also highlighted the Red Cross' disaster response efforts, the need for local volunteers, and the importance of fire safety and smoke alarm preparedness.