Members of the Louisiana Legislature will kick off Sunday, April 21, in the first Truce for the Troops Bowl in Tiger Stadium. This fundraiser, hosted by the House Special Committee on Military and Veteran Affairs, pits Democrats against Republicans to raise money in support of Louisiana’s military through Operation Homefront Louisiana, a nonprofit organization that provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. Money will be collected through ticket sales, player participation fees and sponsorships. 

Rep. Nick Lorusso (R-New Orleans), chairman of the committee and a lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserves, is the Republican team captain, while Rep. John Bel Edwards (D-Amite), past chairman of the committee and a West Point graduate, will captain the Democrats. The two captains have made a friendly wager for the game: Rep. Edwards said he will accept a liberal portion of the meal of his choice from Rep. Lorusso, should the Democrats win, and Rep. Lorusso, similarly, stated he would expect a conservative dinner of his choice from Rep. Edwards, should the Republicans triumph.

Rep. Lorusso expressed his hope and excitement for the event saying, “I look forward to a friendly game, between my Democrat and Republican colleagues in the State Legislature. This event is a great way for us to put aside our political differences and show support for our troops. It goes without saying that I look forward to my ‘liberal portion’ of Amite cuisine, courtesy of Representative Edwards.”

Tickets for the game are $50, students pay $10 for admittance, and children 12 and under are free. The ticket price includes admission, a behind the scenes LSU football facility tour, activities for kids and a reception in the Stadium Club level following the game. Gates open at 2 p.m., kick-off is at 4 p.m. and the reception begins at 5:30 p.m.