Rep. Julia Letlow, R-La., announced Tuesday that she will challenge Sen. Bill Cassidy in the Republican primary for the U.S. Senate, setting up a high-profile intraparty contest backed by President Donald Trump.
Letlow said she is running to provide Louisiana with a senator who will consistently uphold conservative principles, drawing a contrast with Cassidy, one of three Republican senators still in office who voted to convict Trump during his second impeachment trial.
"Today, I am announcing my candidacy for the United States Senate to ensure the nation we leave our children is safer and stronger," Letlow said in a social media post. "Louisiana deserves a conservative Senator who will not waver. I am honored to have President Trump's endorsement and trust. Let's Geaux!"
In an accompanying announcement video, Letlow questioned Cassidy's reliability on key votes, particularly when political pressure is high.
"A state as conservative as ours?" Letlow said. "We shouldn't have to wonder how our senator will vote when the pressure's on. Louisiana deserves conservative champions, leaders who will not flinch."
Trump publicly encouraged Letlow to enter the race over the weekend, signaling early support in what could become a closely watched primary contest.
"Should she decide to enter this Race, Julia Letlow has my Complete and Total Endorsement," Trump wrote on Truth Social this weekend. "RUN, JULIA, RUN!!!"
Cassidy, who was first elected to the Senate in 2014, has not publicly responded to Letlow's announcement. His impeachment vote has remained a point of contention among Louisiana Republicans and pro-Trump voters, setting the stage for a contentious primary contest.