Cassidy Loses Louisiana Primary, Trump-Backed Candidates Advance

Senator Bill Cassidy, known for voting to convict former President Trump in the 2021 impeachment trial, has lost the Republican primary in Louisiana. Two candidates, supported by Trump, are moving forward to a runoff election. Representative Julia Letlow, endorsed by Trump, will compete against State Treasurer John Fleming on June 27, according to projections by NBC News.

The defeat of Cassidy highlights Trump’s strong influence within the GOP, as he aims to challenge Republicans who previously opposed him. Cassidy’s departure adds to the list of Republicans who voted for Trump’s impeachment and won’t return to Congress.

During the primary, Letlow received 45% of the votes, Fleming got 28%, and Cassidy garnered 25% with 93% of votes counted. Letlow’s failure to secure a majority results in a runoff.

Trump celebrated Cassidy’s loss on Truth Social, referencing Cassidy’s impeachment vote. He criticized Cassidy’s ‘disloyalty’ and declared his political career over.

“When you participate in democracy, sometimes it doesn’t turn out the way you want it to. But you don’t pout; you thank the voters for the privilege,” Cassidy said in his speech, indirectly addressing Trump.

Cassidy emphasized loyalty to the Constitution over any individual. He stressed that true leadership involves serving the people, not personal interests. He dismissed internet attacks, suggesting they matter only if they come from individuals with character.

Since 2012, no Republican senator had lost a primary. Cassidy admitted his impeachment vote was potentially divisive but maintained support for Trump’s policies.

I tell people, ‘Hey, you’re married? Did ever your spouse do something that you didn’t like?’ And you work through it, Cassidy explained, focusing on the future of Louisiana.

Some Louisiana voters, like Elias Jacob FaKouri, viewed Cassidy’s vote against Trump as a betrayal. FaKouri expressed that Cassidy should leave office, especially given Trump’s role in his election.

As a physician, Cassidy had disagreements with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. during his confirmation as health secretary. He balanced criticism of HHS with avoiding conflict with Trump.

Despite clashes with Trump, Cassidy’s supporters appreciated his independent approach. Donny Gutierrez expressed approval for Cassidy’s less partisan influence.

In response to Cassidy’s criticisms, Letlow denied accusations about her stock trades and support for DEI initiatives. She claimed such trades were managed by a third party and has since altered her position on DEI matters.

Letlow promoted her endorsement from Trump in her campaign, receiving support from Governor Jeff Landry. She criticized Cassidy and Fleming as opposed to Trump.

Letlow emphasized Trump’s endorsement energy for her campaign. Encouraged by Trump and local Republicans, Letlow committed to her Senate run after her husband’s untimely death in 2021.

Fleming, presenting himself as a Trump ally despite lacking direct endorsement, launched ads portraying himself as the ‘true conservative.’ He served in Congress from 2009 to 2017, played a role in the House Freedom Caucus, and later self-funded his Senate campaign.

Fleming acknowledged pressure to exit the race for Letlow to challenge Cassidy. NBC News reported pressures ‘around’ the Trump administration for him to accept a job offer, though the White House did not comment.

In the Democratic primary, farmer Jamie Davis advances to the runoff, though the second candidate remains uncertain. Nevertheless, Republicans look to retain the seat in the upcoming election. Historically, Republicans have performed well in Louisiana, where Trump secured a significant win in 2024.