President Donald Trump has set off a political storm in Louisiana by throwing his weight behind a challenger to a sitting GOP senator in a crucial Senate contest.
Trump declined to back incumbent Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy and instead endorsed Rep. Julia Letlow for the Louisiana Senate seat on Saturday evening through his platform, Truth Social.
Letlow, who stepped into Congress in 2021 after winning a special election following her late husband’s death from COVID, is reportedly poised to announce her candidacy as early as Monday, per sources cited by Politico on Sunday. Cassidy, a physician and chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pension committee, affirmed via his campaign account on X that he plans to stay in the race.
This move by Trump has sparked heated discussion among Republican supporters and party leaders, reopening a bitter feud with Cassidy. The tension stems from Cassidy’s vote to convict Trump on February 13, 2021, during an impeachment trial linked to the January 6 Capitol event. Many view Trump’s support for Letlow as a pointed reminder of unresolved grievances.
“RUN JULIA RUN!!!” Trump exclaimed on Truth Social, leaving no doubt about his stance. His follow-up was just as firm: “Should she decide to enter this Race, Julia Letlow has my Complete and Total Endorsement.” With Trump’s strong voter support in Louisiana, this backing could sway many in the party’s base.
Letlow’s reply on X that same Saturday night kept her intentions vague but positive. She stated, “I’m honored to have President Trump’s endorsement and trust.” It’s not a definitive yes, but it hints at serious consideration for the race.
Cassidy, meanwhile, shows no sign of stepping aside. His campaign declared on X, “I’m proudly running for re-election as a principled conservative who gets things done for the people of Louisiana.” It’s a confident response, but Trump’s influence casts a long shadow over his path, Daily Mail reports.
The core of this dispute lies in Cassidy’s 2021 decision to vote for Trump’s conviction on a charge tied to inciting insurrection. That choice, made shortly after the Capitol disturbance, alienated a significant portion of Trump’s loyalists. Trump’s endorsement of Letlow now feels like a direct consequence of that vote.
Since Trump’s return to office last year, Cassidy has sought to align with the administration’s goals. He’s contributed to key policy efforts and supported the confirmation of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services Secretary. Yet, these actions haven’t erased past friction.
Under the Biden administration, Cassidy also frustrated many by joining 14 other GOP senators to pass the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a gun control law seen as a major Democratic victory. For staunch Second Amendment defenders, this was a significant misstep. It adds another layer to Trump’s apparent push for a new face in the race.
Trump’s choice to champion Letlow isn’t just personal—it carries strategic risks for the GOP. Louisiana is a must-win state for Republicans to preserve their Senate majority, especially with Democrats ready to contest seats nationwide. A divisive primary could create vulnerabilities for the party.
If Letlow enters the race, she offers a new perspective free from Cassidy’s controversial votes. Her personal journey, taking over a congressional role after tragedy, strikes a chord with many. Still, her lack of Senate experience could be a hurdle against Cassidy’s tenure.
Cassidy’s record reflects a practical approach, often prioritizing governance over strict party lines. His leadership on a key Senate committee and oversight efforts show dedication to results. However, in today’s charged political arena, loyalty often trumps compromise.
The next few days will be pivotal as Letlow mulls an official campaign launch. Should she commit, the primary might test Trump’s sway within the Republican ranks. Louisiana voters face a choice between a seasoned incumbent and a Trump-supported contender.
For now, the state’s GOP base wrestles with internal division. Trump’s backing of Letlow has disrupted what could have been a smooth reelection for Cassidy.
The lingering question is whether this bold move will unify Republicans around a shared vision or weaken their position. A fractured party risks giving Democrats a chance to capitalize. Only time will reveal the true cost of this high-stakes gamble.
