Mr. President, I have a friend in Louisiana. He is the former State speaker of the house. And Charlie invented a new word in English. The word is ``winky-doo.'' When the then-speaker of the statehouse wanted to describe someone acting dishonestly or denigrating your position or double-crossing you, the speaker would say: He tried to winky-doo me. He tried to winky-doo me. I have always loved that word. Intel, a fine American company, may be trying to winky-doo the American taxpayer. Last year--and let me say that again. Intel is a fine company.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatR+13$6.0M raised
John Neely Kennedy
Senator · Louisiana · Republican
John Neely Kennedy
Senate Floor
Recent comments in the Senate
Madam President, I know you are well aware of this, but the Senate needs to pass the Russia sanctions bill, and we need to do it now. We have the votes. Let's vote. Ukraine has Putin down and is choking him. We need to help Ukraine choke him to death. I am sorry that the people of Russia are having to undergo what they are undergoing. I am doubly sorry the people of Ukraine are, but it is not going to stop until Putin understands--and we make him understand--that the costs of his barbarism outweigh the benefits.
Mr. President, last night, I read the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran. I read it twice. And for what it is worth, here is my conclusion: I think we ought to give peace a chance. And that is all I am saying today. You are entitled to your opinion, but all I am saying today is I think we ought to give peace a chance. I have--all week long, even before the memorandum came out--I have heard all the speculation about the agreement, the rank speculation.
Biography
John Neely Kennedy began his career as a state treasurer and attorney, earning a reputation for meticulous oversight of public funds. Elected as U.S. Senator for Louisiana in 2016, Kennedy has focused on fiscal responsibility, disaster relief, and support for the energy sector vital to his state’s economy. He has served on the Senate Appropriations and Judiciary Committees, and played a key role in securing federal disaster aid for Louisiana following major hurricanes. Kennedy is recognized for his direct communication style and commitment to ensuring federal policies reflect the needs and values of Louisianans.
Education
- Bcl, Magdalen College, Oxford University, Oxford, England1979
- J.D., University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA1977
- B.A., Magna cum laude, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN1973
Professional History
U.S. Senator
2017–PresentSenator from Louisiana. 2 terms.
Louisiana State Treasurer
2000–17Secretary, Louisiana Department of Revenue
1996–99Special Counsel, Governor Buddy Roemer
1988–92(secretary in the governor’s cabinet, 1990–92)
Policy Focus
Finance and Financial Sector10%
Health6%
Crime and Law Enforcement5%
Education4%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from John Neely Kennedy's record in Congress.
Flood Insurance Reform
Co-sponsored legislation to reauthorize and improve the National Flood Insurance Program for Louisiana homeowners.
Opioid Crisis Response
Supported measures to increase federal funding for opioid addiction treatment and prevention programs in Louisiana.
Rural Broadband Expansion
Advocated for increased federal investment to expand high-speed internet access in Louisiana’s rural communities.
Veterans Affairs Accountability
Backed reforms to improve accountability and healthcare services for veterans at Louisiana VA facilities.
Committee Assignments
View details →- Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
- Senate Committee on the Budget
- Senate Committee on the Judiciary
- Senate Committee on Appropriations
Sen. John Neely Kennedy FAQ
Reach Louisiana Lawmakers
Senator Kennedy focuses on Finance and Financial Sector, Health and Crime and Law Enforcement. Deliver personalized constituent letters to Louisiana's federal, state, and local officials — live in under five minutes.
Grassroots advocacy & legislator intelligence. Used by nonprofits, associations, and GR firms nationwide.
Start a Campaign