BATON ROUGE, La. — U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy lost his bid for a third term in Louisiana's Republican primary on Saturday, failing to advance to a runoff after finishing behind two challengers, including one endorsed by President Donald Trump.
Cassidy, a two-term incumbent, placed third in the primary, according to projections by multiple news organizations including CNN and the Associated Press. U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, who received Trump's endorsement, led the field, followed by state Treasurer John Fleming. The two will compete in a runoff on June 27.
The defeat marks a significant setback for Cassidy, who has represented Louisiana in the Senate since 2015. It stems in part from his 2021 vote to convict Trump in his second impeachment trial following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump has since backed candidates challenging Republicans he views as disloyal.
Letlow and Fleming positioned themselves as stronger allies to Trump during the campaign. Letlow, a congresswoman, received the president's direct endorsement. Fleming, a former congressman and Trump administration official, also emphasized alignment with the president's agenda.
Cassidy, a physician who chairs the Senate health committee, had defended his record on issues including health care and infrastructure. In a concession appearance Saturday night in Baton Rouge, he addressed supporters.
"I'm not claiming the election was stolen," Cassidy said, stressing acceptance of the results and pledging to fulfill his duties until the end of his term in January 2027.
The primary outcome represents the first time in nearly a century that Louisiana voters have rejected a sitting U.S. senator in a primary, according to historical accounts cited in election coverage.
Results showed Letlow receiving approximately 44.8% of the vote, Fleming about 28.3%, and Cassidy 24.8%, with other candidates splitting the remainder, per partial tallies reported by The New York Times.
Democratic candidates also advanced in their primary, setting up a general election in November. Cassidy's loss highlights divisions within the Republican Party ahead of the 2026 midterms.
As of Sunday, official canvassing continued, but major outlets had called the race with consistent projections. Trump congratulated Letlow on her performance.
Cassidy has not announced future plans beyond completing his current term. Letlow and Fleming are expected to intensify campaigning for the runoff.
