Senator Bill Cassidy’s (R-La.) vote to impeach President-elect Trump in 2021 may resurface as an issue as he faces reelection in 2026. Cassidy was among the seven Senate Republicans who voted to convict Trump, and his criticism of the president-elect has been vocal at times.
In retaliation, Trump has disparaged him as a “TOTAL FLAKE” and a “stiff.” A spokesperson for Cassidy’s campaign confirmed he plans to run for reelection, though an official announcement has not yet been made. Some Republicans anticipate a primary challenge due to growing scrutiny over his past remarks and vote.
Scott Wilfong, a Republican political consultant, described Cassidy’s situation as a challenge, explaining, “It’s a major problem.” He observed that while Cassidy has been highly visible and dedicated to supporting local governments, his political standing is still uncertain.
Cassidy faces a crossroads as his past criticism of Trump complicates his reelection strategy
“Wherever he was four years ago, Bill Cassidy is at least 50 percent better off politically than he was then,” Wilfong said, adding, “Is that enough to get through a Republican primary? I don’t know.” As Cassidy prepares for reelection, many Republicans are bracing for a potentially contentious primary. His vote to convict Trump and his subsequent censure by the state party has left some members of his party displeased.
Following the 2022 midterms, during which several Trump-backed candidates lost, Cassidy rejected the idea of Trump leading the GOP. He refrained from endorsing Trump for 2024, simply stating he intended to vote for the Republican candidate.
Cassidy will not be alone in facing challenges from Trump skeptics in the Senate. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Todd Young (R-Ind.) have all criticized Trump, with Young even withholding his support for the president-elect.
However, Trump’s resounding victory in recent elections, coupled with Louisiana’s conservative political landscape, raises questions about whether voters will overlook Cassidy’s controversial impeachment vote enough to give him another term in office.
Several Republicans in Louisiana are eyeing a potential challenge to Cassidy’s seat. State Treasurer John Fleming has hinted at running, positioning himself as the leading contender, especially with Trump’s influence.
Meanwhile, Louisiana Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta is reportedly considering a Senate bid, with a decision expected early next year. Additionally, Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) raised speculation about his potential candidacy after commenting on Cassidy’s primary prospects.
Rep. Garret Graves (R-La.), who is set to leave Congress, has also been mentioned as a potential challenger. Some have even speculated about former Governor John Bel Edwards (D) entering the race for the Democrats.
The stakes rise for Cassidy as potential challengers emerge eager to capitalize on his controversial record
James Hartman, a Republican consultant, emphasized that Cassidy’s impeachment vote continues to haunt him. “To a lot of voters, that’s going to be the single issue that defines him,” Hartman said. “I think that’s going to be the biggest albatross around his neck.”
Despite this, Cassidy has downplayed the impact of his impeachment vote. “I’ve done a good job for the state,” he stated. “Good policy is good politics.” He added that while he may face a challenger, he’s not overly concerned. “I can’t stay awake at night worried about that,” he remarked, quoting scripture: “The day’s own troubles be sufficient for the day.”
One factor that could shape Cassidy’s reelection bid is Louisiana’s shift in electoral systems. Starting in 2026, Senate primaries will be held separately for Democrats and Republicans, unlike the previous jungle primary system. This change may favor candidates who can rally their party bases, making it more difficult for centrist candidates like Cassidy to run the race.
Cassidy has expressed concerns over the cost of the new system and its lack of support among Louisiana voters. Despite this, his campaign remains confident, with his spokesperson noting he holds a financial advantage. Cassidy’s campaign also highlights that no sitting Louisiana senator has lost a primary during his time in office.
Although Cassidy’s primary prospects are uncertain, Republicans will still need his support as Trump aims to confirm key nominees, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Cassidy, who chairs the Senate HELP Committee, has offered positive comments on some of Trump’s nominees, signaling a possible olive branch to the president-elect.
Political strategist Mary-Patricia Wray suggested that while politicians like Cassidy may appeal to voters with diverse viewpoints, such positions can also make them vulnerable in tight races. As Cassidy navigates the path to reelection, he will have to balance his independent stances with the expectations of his party.
