Trump-endorsed Louisiana Rep. Letlow defeats Fleming in competitive GOP Senate runoff, AP projects

In the hotly contested Republican Senate runoff in Louisiana, Rep. Julia Letlow emerged victorious over Louisiana Treasurer John Fleming, securing about 55% of the vote compared to Fleming’s 45%, according to the Associated Press. Letlow’s win solidifies her position as a staunch conservative aligned with President Donald Trump, who endorsed her in the race.

This victory adds to Trump’s successful endorsement record in the midterm cycle, with Letlow previously leading in the Republican primary with 45% of the vote. Letlow rose to prominence in 2021 after winning a seat in the 5th Congressional District following her husband’s untimely death from COVID-19 complications before taking office.

Fleming, a physician and former congressman who served in Trump’s administration, campaigned in line with the president but failed to secure his endorsement. Despite their differences, Fleming and Trump maintained a warm relationship throughout the race. Trump’s involvement in the campaign was significant, as he urged voters to reject incumbent Sen. Bill Cassidy, who voted to convict him following the January 6 insurrection and clashed with Trump over his actions in Iran.

With Cassidy out of the race, some speculated that voter turnout in the runoff might be lower. Republican strategist Lionel Rainey III suggested that the motivation to vote against Cassidy in the previous round may have diminished. However, Letlow was considered the frontrunner, according to Louisiana State University professor Robert Hogan.

Although Trump did not visit Louisiana, his social media endorsements and telerally support for Letlow played a crucial role in her campaign. The race between Letlow and Fleming turned contentious at times, with Fleming criticizing the influx of attack ads and “dark money” targeting him, particularly on illegal immigration. He also labeled Letlow as “liberal,” citing her past comments on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) during a job interview in 2020.

In response, Letlow clarified her stance on DEI in a debate, stating that she has actively worked against it during her time in Congress. Looking ahead, Letlow will face off against Jamie Davis in November, who secured a victory in the runoff against Gary Crockett with 79% of the vote. Davis, a farmer backed by New Orleans Mayor Helena Moreno, will challenge Letlow in the deep-red state, setting the stage for an intense battle in the upcoming election.