Julia Letlow wins Louisiana GOP Senate runoff with Trump's backing, ousting incumbent Cassidy

The Election Result

U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow won the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in Louisiana on Saturday, giving President Donald Trump a win after he backed her to replace GOP Sen. Bill Cassidy. Letlow, who was endorsed by Trump, defeated state Treasurer John Fleming in the two-candidate runoff after they finished ahead of Cassidy in the GOP primary May 16. Letlow defeated state Treasurer John Fleming, NBC News projects. Incumbent Sen. Bill Cassidy did not make the runoff.

Trump's Political Capital

The outcome demonstrates Trump's continued influence within the Republican Party as the 2028 election cycle approaches. The president's endorsement proved decisive in a competitive race, signaling his ability to shape GOP primary contests and determine candidates for major office. Donald Trump's endorsement power faces a new test as Louisiana holds its GOP Senate runoff between Rep. Julia Letlow and state Treasurer John Fleming.

The Race Dynamics

Letlow advances as the presumptive Republican nominee in a state that favors GOP candidates, making her likely to secure the general election. Her victory removes Cassidy, who had been criticized by Trump-aligned figures, from his Senate seat after decades in Louisiana politics. The outcome reflects broader Republican realignment under Trump's leadership, with primary voters increasingly supporting Trump-endorsed candidates.

General Election Prospects

With Louisiana being a deeply Republican state, Letlow is positioned to win the general election and join the Senate as a Trump-aligned Republican. The victory adds momentum to Trump's 2028 presidential positioning and demonstrates his influence in Senate races nationwide.