Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has come under scrutiny following a social media post he made hours after a deadly truck attack in New Orleans on New Year’s Day. The post, shared Wednesday evening, shows Landry smiling and giving a thumbs up outside a New Orleans steakhouse, accompanied by six others, including his wife. The photo, which emphasized the continued operation of restaurants in the city, was intended to convey that New Orleans remained resilient in the face of the attack.
The attack, which occurred in the French Quarter, resulted in 14 deaths and left dozens injured. The FBI has confirmed that the attack was a premeditated act of terrorism, carried out by 42-year-old Shamsud-Din Jabbar, a Houston resident and U.S. citizen. Jabbar was fatally shot by police at the scene after he allegedly attempted to flee.
In his post, Landry expressed his support for the city and its recovery, stating, “Ate dinner tonight in New Orleans. Proud to be a part of this incredibly resilient city. See everyone at the game tomorrow!” He went on to emphasize the importance of safety for both locals and visitors, adding, “It’s important to understand that we have many visitors in the city of New Orleans right now. Safety is our top priority, and we want our guests and the world to know that Louisiana does not cower to radical Islamic terrorists.”
The post was met with significant backlash online, with many critics labeling it distasteful and insensitive. The timing of the post, coming shortly after the tragic event, led some to accuse Landry of showboating rather than showing empathy for the victims and their families. The governor’s office has not yet responded to requests for comment on the controversy.
As the investigation into the attack continues, including the discovery of explosives planted on Bourbon Street by the attacker, many remain focused on how public figures, like Landry, should navigate the delicate balance between showing resilience and respecting the gravity of such tragic events.