Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy waves off Trump’s backing of GOP rival in reelection bid - AP News
AP News
February 13, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy has distanced himself from former President Donald Trump's support for his Republican rival in the upcoming Senate election. In a move signaling political independence and strategic positioning, Cassidy has rejected Trump’s endorsement of his opponent, highlighting the growing tensions within the GOP over the former president’s influence. This decision could have significant implications for the race, as Cassidy seeks to differentiate himself from Trump’s polarizing image while appealing to a broader base of voters.
Cassidy’s rejection of Trump’s backing comes amid a highly competitive Senate race in Louisiana, where he faces Rusty Brown, a candidate endorsed by Trump. By distancing himself from Trump, Cassidy appears to be attempting to peel off moderate and independent voters who may be turned off by the former president’s controversial reputation. This strategy reflects a broader trend among Republican candidates who are wary of being closely associated with Trump, given his declining approval ratings and the challenges he faces in maintaining party unity.
The move also underscores the delicate balance Cassidy must strike between aligning with conservative values and avoiding the political baggage that comes with Trump’s endorsement. By doing so, he is positioning himself as a more moderate alternative while still adhering to core GOP principles. This approach may help him appeal to voters who are weary of the divisiveness often associated with Trump-era politics.
The Louisiana Senate race is widely seen as a critical battleground in the 2024 election cycle. With Cassidy and Brown vying for the seat, the outcome could have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress. As Trump continues to play a prominent role in Republican politics, candidates like Cassidy are forced to navigate a complex political landscape, balancing loyalty to the party with the need to appeal to a diverse electorate.
Ultimately, Cassidy’s decision to reject Trump
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Originally published on AP News on 2/13/2026