President Donald Trump has been encouraging U.S. Representative Julia Letlow (R-LA) on social media to run against incumbent U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in the 2026 GOP primary. On Tuesday, Letlow announced that she will challenge Cassidy, who voted to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial in 2021.
In her campaign launch video, Letlow called Trump’s leadership “courageous” and took a jab at Cassidy by saying, “We shouldn’t have to wonder how our senator will vote when the pressure’s on.”
Today, I am announcing my candidacy for the United States Senate to ensure the nation we leave our children is safer and stronger.
Louisiana deserves a conservative Senator who will not waver. I am honored to have President Trump’s endorsement and trust.
Let’s Geaux! pic.twitter.com/4Xm7hzdro7
— Julia B Letlow, Ph.D. (@jbletlow) January 20, 2026
MAGA-aligned former U.S. Representative Bob Good (R-VA), a former leader of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, criticized both of his former colleagues on Capitol Hill on Wednesday and wrote on social media: “What makes establishment moderate RINO Rep. Julia Letlow (R-LA) any better than establishment moderate RINO Sen. Bill Cassidy (R-LA)?”
One thing is true: they are both better than you — a uniquely awful colleague and Member of Congress.
Signed the entire 119th Congress. https://t.co/VV0EgkklWi
— Mike Lawler (@lawler4ny) January 21, 2026
U.S. Congressman Mike Lawler (R-NY) replied to Good: “One thing is true: they are both better than you — a uniquely awful colleague and Member of Congress. Signed the entire 119th Congress.”
Note: When Good lost the GOP primary election in June 2024 to state Senator John McGuire, he cast doubt on the legitimacy of the election and claimed that three fires broke out at three different polling places on election day and questioned the security for election drop boxes. After a recount, confirming that Good lost to McGuire by 370 votes, Good conceded the election in August.