Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy Faces Primary Challenge After Voting to Convict Trump
Sen. Bill Cassidy is running for a third term in a Republican primary scheduled for May 17, 2026. He faces two challengers, one endorsed by President Trump.
uctoday.comLouisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy is seeking a third term in a Republican primary election scheduled for Saturday. Cassidy was one of seven Republican senators who voted to convict President Trump after the January 6, 2021 events. The primary will test President Trump's influence within the Republican Party.
The top two vote-getters advance to a runoff next month if no candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote.
Cassidy faces state Treasurer John Fleming and Rep. Julia Letlow. Letlow received an endorsement from President Trump. Letlow won a special election in 2021 for a House seat previously held by her late husband. She has sponsored legislation on education and parental notification requirements for school matters.
Cassidy has highlighted his work securing federal funding for Louisiana infrastructure projects and legislation on prescription drug costs and fentanyl enforcement.
At the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, some attendees expressed opposition to Cassidy's vote to convict Trump. Retired deputy sheriff Kevin Dupree said he would not support Cassidy. St. Letlow has said Louisiana needs a senator who follows the preferences of voters who supported Trump. Cassidy has said he works with President Trump on legislation despite past differences.
Key Facts
Story Timeline
5 events- January 2021
Seven Republican senators voted to convict President Trump.
1 sourceNPR - May 2, 2026
Voters discussed the race at the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival.
1 sourceNPR - May 4, 2026
Cassidy held a campaign event in Baton Rouge.
1 sourceNPR - May 5, 2026
Letlow met with supporters during a campaign event in Baton Rouge.
1 sourceNPR - May 16, 2026
NPR published the report on the Louisiana Senate primary.
1 sourceNPR
Potential Impact
- 01
The primary outcome will determine which Republican advances to the general election.
- 02
A runoff election will occur next month if no candidate receives over 50 percent.
Transparency Panel
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