Liz Murrill, an eighth-generation Louisianan, has dedicated her career to public service, culminating in her current role as the Attorney General of Louisiana. Her journey to this esteemed position is marked by extensive legal experience, a commitment to justice, and a proactive approach to addressing pressing issues such as crime reduction, social justice, and illegal immigration.
Political Career Path to Attorney General
Born in New Orleans and raised in Lafayette, Murrill’s Louisiana roots run deep. She graduated from Lafayette High School and pursued a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Louisiana State University (LSU) in 1985. Her passion for law led her to LSU’s Paul M. Hebert Law Center, where she earned her Juris Doctor in 1991 and served as the editor-in-chief of the Louisiana Law Review during her senior year.
Murrill’s legal career began with clerkships under U.S. District Judge Frank J. Polozola and First Circuit Court of Appeal Judge Melvin Shortess, providing her with invaluable insights into the judicial system. Her dedication to public service saw her in pivotal roles within state government, including serving as Executive Counsel to Governor Bobby Jindal and as the Commissioner of Administration. In 2015, she broke new ground by becoming Louisiana’s first Solicitor General, a role in which she represented the state’s interests in complex legal matters at both state and federal levels.
Her tenure as Solicitor General was marked by significant achievements, including arguing five cases before the U.S. Supreme Court and serving as lead counsel in over 35 cases challenging federal overreach on issues ranging from religious liberty to COVID-19 mandates. These accomplishments solidified her reputation as a formidable advocate for Louisiana’s sovereignty and constitutional rights.
In 2023, with Attorney General Jeff Landry opting to run for governor, Murrill announced her candidacy to succeed him. She led the primary election and secured a decisive victory in the runoff on November 18, 2023, defeating Lindsey Cheek with 66.4% of the vote. This victory made her Louisiana’s first female Attorney General, a testament to her enduring commitment to public service and justice.
Approach to Lowering Crime
As Attorney General, Murrill has prioritized combating crime through a multifaceted approach. She has assisted District Attorneys across Louisiana in over 200 criminal appeals, ensuring that convicted criminals are held accountable. Her office is committed to expanding the Attorney General’s cybercrime unit to investigate online child exploitation and protect vulnerable populations from predators. Liz4LA+1Liz4LA+1
Murrill’s notable legal battles include:
- Preventing the release of a dangerous pedophile convicted of murdering a six-year-old boy.Liz4LA
- Successfully arguing before the U.S. Supreme Court to block a new trial for a convicted rapist who had confessed to his crime.Liz4LA
- Blocking a new trial for a convicted felon sentenced to death for the rape and murder of a young woman.Liz4LA
These efforts underscore her dedication to upholding justice and ensuring public safety. Liz4LA
Mindset on Social Justice Issues
Murrill’s stance on social justice is rooted in a commitment to individual liberties and constitutional rights. She has been a staunch defender of First Amendment rights, challenging unconstitutional actions that infringe upon freedoms of speech, assembly, and religion. Her notable efforts include defending a pastor arrested for holding worship services during COVID-19 restrictions and advocating for a student disciplined for expressing opinions on social media.
Her support for Second Amendment rights is equally resolute. Murrill has led multi-state efforts challenging overly restrictive firearm laws, emphasizing the fundamental freedom to bear arms. She holds a concealed-carry permit and believes in the right to self-defense, reflecting her personal commitment to this constitutional right.
In the realm of reproductive rights, Murrill has been a vocal advocate for the unborn. She defended Louisiana’s admitting privileges law up to the U.S. Supreme Court, paving the way for the reversal of Roe v. Wade. Her efforts have earned her recognition from pro-life organizations, highlighting her dedication to this cause.
Record on Illegal Immigration
Murrill has taken a firm stance on illegal immigration, emphasizing the enforcement of federal immigration laws to protect Louisiana’s citizens. She has challenged policies that she perceives as “sanctuary” practices, particularly in New Orleans. In February 2025, she filed a lawsuit against the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, alleging non-compliance with state laws requiring cooperation with federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) regarding undocumented detainees and those arrested for violent crimes.
Her actions reflect a broader commitment to combating illegal immigration and addressing its impact on Louisiana. She has criticized federal immigration policies, stating that Louisiana taxpayers should not bear the burden of illegal immigration. Her office continues to challenge federal approaches to immigration that she believes adversely affect the state.
In summary, Attorney General Liz Murrill’s career is characterized by a steadfast commitment to justice, public safety, and the defense of constitutional rights. Her proactive approaches to lowering crime, addressing social justice issues, and tackling illegal immigration demonstrate her dedication to serving and protecting the people of Louisiana.