Story perspectives

Trump-Backed Julia Letlow Leads Cassidy in Louisiana Primary

5/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

Bill Cassidy, longtime health-policy Senate leader, now faces a Trump-backed primary challenge that could end his career.
He is contesting the May 16 Republican primary in Louisiana for his Senate seat.
U.S. President Donald Trump and the Make American Healthy Again movement have endorsed Rep. Julia Letlow, a challenger.
Polls show Cassidy trailing Letlow and John Fleming, while colleagues say his shift toward MAGA credentials has hurt his standing.

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Story summary

Bill Cassidy, longtime health-policy Senate leader, now faces a Trump-backed primary challenge that could end his career.
He is contesting the May 16 Republican primary in Louisiana for his Senate seat.
U.S. President Donald Trump and the Make American Healthy Again movement have endorsed Rep. Julia Letlow, a challenger.
Polls show Cassidy trailing Letlow and John Fleming, while colleagues say his shift toward MAGA credentials has hurt his standing.