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Sen. Cassidy says governor's meeting with LSU board is "not unusual" amid coach controversy
Summary
Asked about reporting that Gov. Jeff Landry met with the LSU board at the governor's mansion regarding coach Brian Kelly, Sen. Bill Cassidy said governors meeting boards is not uncommon and said the university ultimately makes hiring decisions.
Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) addressed reporting that Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry met with the LSU board of supervisors at the governor's mansion about coach Brian Kelly's position, saying the governor's involvement is not inherently improper and that the university ultimately decides leadership.
When asked whether a governor exerting influence over a university athletic program is problematic, Cassidy replied that the board of supervisors "will appoint which is the people that head the university" and said such involvement has precedent: "that's not unusual. That's been done in the past." He noted local attention in Baton Rouge and cited prior instances when university and board leadership had a role in athletic hiring.
Cassidy stopped short of judging the governor's actions improper, saying the governor "can do what he wants" and framing the matter as part of longstanding local practices rather than a federal governance issue. The transcript did not include a direct statement from Gov. Jeff Landry, the LSU board, or university officials in response during this broadcast.
