Louisiana Republican voters face a pivotal decision this Saturday in a primary runoff that could reshape the state’s political landscape. Following the recent ousting of incumbent Senator Bill Cassidy—who was deemed insufficiently loyal to former President Donald Trump—Republican voters must now choose between Rep. Julia Letlow, a Trump-endorsed candidate, and state Treasurer John Fleming.

Letlow emerged as the frontrunner in the initial primary, securing nearly 45% of the votes, while Fleming trailed with around 28%. Cassidy, who finished with nearly 25%, was eliminated in this race, marking his downfall as part of Trump’s broader campaign against GOP incumbents who crossed him. Cassidy’s vote to convict Trump during the former president’s second impeachment trial is widely seen as a primary factor in his political demise.

This runoff is crucial as it acts as a barometer for Trump’s ongoing influence over the Republican Party, particularly amid a midterm primary season that has seen mixed results for his endorsements. Earlier this year, Trump successfully orchestrated the removals of other GOP figures, including Cassidy and Texas Senator John Cornyn. However, recent weeks have highlighted some setbacks for Trump as GOP voters bypassed his chosen candidates in several key races, including primaries for governor in Iowa and Georgia.

In a strategic telephone rally for Letlow on Thursday night, Trump praised her qualifications and legislative record, underscoring her alignment with his policy priorities, such as tax reform and immigration enforcement. He assured supporters that Letlow would be a “fearless champion” for the state.

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