Louisiana Congresswoman Launches Senate Bid with Trump's Backing
Republican congresswoman Julia Letlow has officially launched her campaign for the United States Senate seat in Louisiana, setting up a primary challenge against incumbent Senator Bill Cassidy. The announcement comes after former President Donald Trump issued a forceful endorsement of Letlow on his Truth Social platform over the weekend.
Trump's "Total Winner" Endorsement
In a social media post that has galvanised conservative circles, Donald Trump described Letlow as a "TOTAL WINNER" and enthusiastically encouraged her to enter the race. "I know Julia well, have seen her tested at the highest and most difficult levels, and she is a TOTAL WINNER!" the former president declared. "RUN, JULIA, RUN!!!"
This endorsement carries significant weight in Louisiana Republican politics and represents a direct challenge to Cassidy, who has previously drawn Trump's ire. The incumbent senator was among the Republicans who voted to convict Trump during his second impeachment trial following the January 2021 Capitol attack.
Letlow's Campaign Announcement
In her campaign announcement video released on Tuesday, Letlow positioned herself as a staunch Trump ally who would reliably support the former president's agenda. "Our president is keeping his promises," she stated, aligning herself closely with Trump's policy priorities.
The congresswoman outlined her platform, emphasising border security, support for law enforcement, combating inflation, and reforming what she described as an education system overly focused on "woke ideology." She argued that Louisiana deserves a senator whose voting record won't be in doubt "when the pressure is on."
Letlow's political journey has been marked by personal tragedy. She entered Congress through a 2021 special election following the death of her husband, Luke Letlow, who passed away from COVID-19 complications just days before he was scheduled to be sworn into office.
Cassidy's Response and Record
Senator Cassidy responded to the challenge with a statement acknowledging Letlow's courtesy in informing him of her decision. "She said she respected me and that I had done a good job. I will continue to do a good job when I win re-election," Cassidy stated.
The incumbent senator emphasised his conservative credentials and daily commitment to improving conditions for Louisiana residents and Americans nationwide. Cassidy serves on the influential Senate health committee, where he has navigated complex healthcare issues during his tenure.
Last year, Cassidy cast the deciding vote to confirm Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as health secretary despite reservations about Kennedy's past comments questioning vaccine safety and efficacy. However, Cassidy has since criticised Kennedy's leadership at the Department of Health and Human Services, particularly regarding COVID-19 vaccine distribution policies.
Changed Electoral Landscape
The timing of this primary challenge coincides with significant changes to Louisiana's electoral system. In 2024, state lawmakers approved shifting from an open primary system to a closed party primary for certain offices, including U.S. Senate seats.
This change substantially alters the political calculus for candidates. Under the previous "jungle primary" system, the top two vote-getters regardless of party affiliation would advance to a runoff if no candidate received over 50% of the vote. The new closed primary system virtually guarantees that each major party will have a candidate in the runoff election.
For Cassidy, this means he must win the Republican primary outright to advance to the general election, whereas the old system would have allowed him to reach the runoff even if he finished second to another Republican in a primary open to all voters.
The stage is now set for what promises to be a closely watched Republican primary battle in Louisiana, with Trump's endorsement providing Letlow with substantial momentum as she challenges an incumbent senator with his own conservative record and accomplishments.
