Donald Trump Endorses Julia Letlow in High-Stakes Republican Primary Challenge to Sen. Bill Cassidy

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly backed Congresswoman Julia Letlow as a potential Republican primary challenger to Sen. Bill Cassidy in Louisiana, a striking move that underscores Trump’s enduring influence within the GOP and the political fallout from Cassidy’s past decisions. 

In a Truth Social post, Trump urged Letlow to run for the Senate seat, describing her as a “TOTAL WINNER” and pledging his “complete and total endorsement” if she enters the race. He praised her record as a conservative leader and outlined a platform focused on economic growth, security, and traditional Republican priorities. 

Letlow, who has represented Louisiana’s 5th Congressional District since 2021 and previously won a special election following her late husband’s death, responded appreciatively, saying she was honored by Trump’s endorsement and emphasised a mission to strengthen conservative leadership for Louisiana families. 

Cassidy’s Defiance and the Political Context

Senator Bill Cassidy, a two-term Republican seeking re-election, rejected acting on Trump’s call for a challenger and reaffirmed his campaign, calling himself a “principled conservative” confident of victory even if Letlow runs. 

Trump’s backing of Letlow is widely interpreted as political retribution for Cassidy’s decision to vote to convict Trump during his second impeachment trial after the January 6, 2021 Capitol attack — a rare break from party ranks that has lingered in intra-party dynamics. 

The endorsement adds a volatile element to the Louisiana Senate race ahead of candidate filing deadlines and comes at a time when Republican primaries nationally are shaping the balance of power in Congress. Analysts see Trump’s action as a signal that loyalty to his agenda remains a potent factor in GOP politics, even as some incumbents resist or downplay his influence. 

The unfolding contest between Letlow and Cassidy — if it materialises — will be closely watched as a test of Trump’s kingmaker role and the electoral strength of traditional conservative incumbents within the Republican Party.