Julia Letlow launches Trump-backed Senate primary bid against Bill Cassidy

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Shrai Popat in WashingtonJanuary 20, 2026 at 07:37 PM

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Louisiana congresswoman Julia Letlow has announced her bid for Senate, challenging two-term incumbent Bill Cassidy. The primary challenge is seen as a response to Cassidy's past votes, including his decision to convict President Trump during his second impeachment trial. Cassidy had also cast the deciding vote to confirm Robert F Kennedy Jr as health secretary despite concerns over his comments on vaccine efficacy. Letlow received a social media endorsement from Donald Trump, who praised her as a "TOTAL WINNER" and urged her to run. Letlow cited Cassidy's voting record as a reason for entering the race, stating that in a conservative state like Louisiana, voters should know how their senator will vote when pressure is on. The Senate primary is expected to be a closely watched contest in Louisiana.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Truth Social 40% Capitol riots 40% Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 40% Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) 40% Robert F Kennedy Jr ×250% Luke Letlow 50% United States Senate ×250% Louisiana ×370% Bill Cassidy ×480% Donald Trump ×380% Julia Letlow ×790%

Keywords

trump-backed senate primary 80% louisiana senate race 70% bill cassidy 60% julia letlow 60% republican primary 50% cassidy-letlow primary 50% trump endorsement 40%