Lt Gov: Duck Dynasty key to Louisiana tourism

This undated image released by A&E shows brothers Silas "Uncle Si" Robertson, left, and Phil Robertson from the popular series "Duck Dynasty." Phil Robertson was suspended last week for disparaging comments he made to GQ magazine about gay people. (AP Photo/A&E, Zach Dilgard)

This undated image released by A&E shows Phil Robertson from the popular series "Duck Dynasty." Robertson was suspended last week for disparaging comments he made to GQ magazine about gay people. (AP Photo/A&E, Zach Dilgard)

NEW ORLEANS — Louisiana’s lieutenant governor says the “Duck Dynasty” reality TV show is important to state tourism — and he could help connect the Robertson family with new producers if they cannot reach agreement with the A&E network.

In an emailed statement, Jay Dardenne says the state “has the infrastructure in place to maintain their record-breaking program.”

Dardenne authored the state’s film and TV tax credit program. He says he’d use his influence in the state’s industry to help the Robertsons.

The network suspended patriarch Phil Robertson last week for comments he made to GQ magazine about gays.

Dardenne says that regardless what people think about Robertson’s comments, the program has drawn a huge audience eager to visit Louisiana.

The lieutenant governor’s job includes running the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism.