Donald Trump attacks Senator Bill Cassidy on election day over past impeachment vote
The president labeled the Louisiana senator a "disloyal disaster" on the same day voters decide his political future.
Loyalty is the currency of modern politics, and for some, the price of breaking ranks is a public shaming on election day. Voters in Louisiana are currently deciding if that price is too high for their sitting senator.
What Happened
President Trump took to Truth Social on Saturday to blast Senator Bill Cassidy. He called the senator a "disloyal disaster" and a "sleazebag" for his vote to impeach him in 2021. The attack came while polls were open across Louisiana for the state's primary election.
Trump’s comments are part of a broader effort to remove Republicans who crossed him during his time in office. He has already endorsed Representative Julia Letlow for the seat, giving her campaign a significant boost in the state.
Senator Cassidy is fighting to make it into a runoff election. He faces a crowded field, including state Treasurer John Fleming. If no candidate gets more than 50% of the vote, the top two will face off on June 27.
What the money/evidence shows
- The 2021 impeachment vote centered on a charge of incitement of insurrection.
- Senator Cassidy is currently competing in a closed primary system that requires strong support from the MAGA base.
- Representative Julia Letlow received a formal endorsement from Donald Trump for the Senate seat.
- If no candidate reaches 50% of the vote, a runoff election is scheduled for June 27.
- The race includes multiple candidates, such as state Treasurer John Fleming.
The Bigger Question
This race highlights a shift in how primary elections work. By moving to a closed primary system, the state has made it harder for candidates to rely on a mix of voters from both parties.
Is the party base now the only path to victory? When candidates are forced to choose between party loyalty and their own judgment, the voters are the ones who ultimately decide which trait matters more.
The Other Side
Senator Cassidy has largely avoided rehashing his 2021 vote during the campaign. In a recent interview, he suggested that it is time to focus on "living life forward" rather than looking back at past decisions. This strategy aims to keep the focus on current issues, though it remains to be seen if voters will let the past stay buried.
What Happens Now
For the people of Louisiana, this election will determine who represents them in the Senate for the next term. The outcome will also serve as a signal to other lawmakers about the risks of opposing party leadership.
If Cassidy loses, it will be a clear win for the president’s influence over the party. If he survives, it could show that local concerns still outweigh national political feuds.
What We Still Don't Know
- Will the turnout be high enough to push any candidate over the 50% threshold today?
- How much did the change in the primary system actually hurt Cassidy’s chances?
- Will the voters prioritize the impeachment vote or the candidates' plans for the state?
Source Note: All charges are allegations - Donald Trump is presumed innocent until proven guilty.