President Donald Trump took a decisive step in shaping the Republican Senate field in Louisiana, urging Congresswoman Julia Letlow to launch a primary challenge against incumbent Senator Bill Cassidy for the 2026 race. Trump hailed Letlow as a “total winner” and offered his full endorsement should she decide to enter the contest.
Trump’s move underscores frustration among many conservatives with Cassidy’s past decisions, including his vote to convict Trump during the impeachment proceedings after January 6, 2021 — a vote that has lingered as a sore spot with the Republican base. National Republican voters in Louisiana remain overwhelmingly supportive of Trump’s leadership, and the president’s encouragement of Letlow’s candidacy is a direct appeal to that base.
Letlow has yet to make an official campaign announcement, but she responded appreciatively to Trump’s message on social media, thanking him for his trust and reiterating her commitment to conservative principles and strong national security. Her potential entrance would instantly reshape the GOP Senate primary and present a stark choice for voters between a Trump‑aligned conservative and an incumbent viewed as part of the Republican establishment.
Cassidy, who has already launched his reelection campaign, responded to Trump’s endorsement of Letlow by reaffirming his own conservative record and his belief that he can prevail in the primary. He pointed to his work on key issues and longstanding service to Louisiana voters, even as some in the party question his loyalty to core Republican values.
The involvement of Trump in this primary fight reflects a broader trend in the Republican Party, where loyalty to the America‑first agenda and alignment with Trump’s vision continue to be decisive factors for many GOP voters and leaders. Louisiana, a reliably red state that Trump carried by a wide margin in 2024, is likely to see intense interest from national conservative donors and activists as the primary unfolds.
With qualifying deadlines approaching and other challengers already in the race, Letlow’s decision will be a pivotal moment in the Louisiana Senate contest. If she enters with Trump’s backing, it could define the direction of the Republican Party in the state and nationally heading into the 2026 midterms.
