La. Republican Sen. Bill Cassidy fails to make runoff in primary, as Trump-backed challenger tops vote

Sen. Bill Cassidy faced a tough challenge in the Louisiana Republican primary, ultimately finishing third behind Rep. Julia Letlow and state Treasurer John Fleming. Letlow secured the lead with 44.8% of the votes, followed by Fleming with 28.4%, while Cassidy trailed behind with 24.7%. The Associated Press projected Letlow and Fleming as the winners, advancing them to a runoff on June 27.

President Trump’s endorsement played a significant role in Letlow’s success, as he reiterated his support on Truth Social. Trump celebrated the victory on social media, criticizing Cassidy for his disloyalty and impeachment vote against him. Trump’s endorsement of Letlow early on in the race signaled a tough battle for Cassidy.

Cassidy, who voted to convict Trump of incitement of insurrection after the Capitol riot in 2021, faced backlash from Trump and his supporters. Beyond the impeachment vote, Cassidy publicly called on Trump to drop out of the 2024 election and criticized the administration for not being pro-life enough. Trump’s revenge came in the form of endorsing Letlow, ensuring Cassidy would face a challenging primary.

House Speaker Mike Johnson expressed his discomfort with the three-way race, acknowledging his close relationship with Letlow and Fleming. Despite Cassidy’s efforts to mend ties with Trump, including voting to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as Health and Human Services secretary, his defeat in the primary highlighted the ongoing rift between him and the former president.

Cassidy and Fleming targeted Letlow’s past career as a university official, criticizing her support for diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Trump’s endorsements have proven influential in recent primary races, as seen in the defeat of Indiana Republican lawmakers who opposed him on redistricting issues.

The upcoming primary between Rep. Thomas Massie and Ed Gallrein in Kentucky will test Trump’s influence within the GOP once again. Massie, a libertarian, faces off against Gallrein, who is backed by Trump. The outcome of this race will further demonstrate Trump’s sway over the Republican Party.