WASHINGTON, D.C. — Louisiana’s current U.S. Senators, John Kennedy and Bill Cassidy, introduced a resolution this week honoring the life and achievements of former U.S. Senator J. Bennett Johnston, who passed away on March 25, 2025, at the age of 92.
Senator Johnston, a Shreveport native, served Louisiana with distinction in the U.S. Senate from 1972 to 1997. Known for his calm demeanor and steady leadership, Johnston left a lasting legacy on energy policy, economic development, and infrastructure improvements across the state and the nation.
“Senator J. Bennett Johnston was a Louisiana champion and a champion for Louisiana,” said Sen. Kennedy. “He played big but spoke softly. Composure was his superpower. Bennett loved Louisiana, loved America, and loved his family. He was a great senator. Louisiana weeps.”
Sen. Cassidy echoed those sentiments, adding, “J. Bennett Johnston was a North Louisiana guy who fought for the whole state. He wasn’t the kind of senator who went to Washington just to vote ‘no.’ He voted ‘yes’ when it meant more energy jobs, more investment, and a better future for Louisiana. You can go around the entire state and see the impact he had—he made life better for Louisianans in real, tangible ways.”
Born in Shreveport in 1932, Johnston began his political career in the Louisiana State Legislature, serving in both the House and Senate before being elected to the U.S. Senate. During his tenure, he rose to national prominence as chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee from 1987 to 1995, where he played a pivotal role in crafting U.S. energy policy.
Johnston was instrumental in efforts to expand Louisiana’s offshore energy production, improve hurricane and flood protection systems, and preserve the state’s coastal wetlands—initiatives that continue to impact the region today.
His influence stretched across the state, with economic development projects, energy advancements, and infrastructure improvements bearing his legacy. Even after leaving public office, Johnston remained a respected voice in policy circles and continued to advocate for Louisiana’s progress.
The resolution introduced by Kennedy and Cassidy stands as a formal recognition of Johnston’s service and an enduring tribute to a man whose work shaped modern Louisiana.