Senate Considers Change to Primary Law Amid Cassidy’s Reelection Efforts

Washington, D.C. — Talks are heating up around the possibility of altering Louisiana’s campaign law to aid U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy‘s reelection bid next year. The discussions emerged after suggestions were made to eliminate the second primary, allowing a candidate to win with a plurality rather than needing over 50% of the vote.

Political analysts suggest that Cassidy could emerge victorious in a crowded primary, which may divide the conservative vote. However, analysts also warn that Cassidy could struggle against another Republican in a head-to-head match in a second primary.

According to two legislators, Cassidy reached out to discuss this potential change with them. Despite this flurry of activity, the Senate did not attempt any changes over the weekend. The conversations highlight the heightened interest regarding Cassidy’s bid for a third term.

This dialogue about changing the primary law first arose when Senator Caleb Kleinpeter, R-Port Allen, inquired about cost savings from eliminating the second primary during a recent committee hearing. Reports indicated that this change could save the state around $3 million per election.

Opposition to the change came from Rep. Beau Beaullieu, R-New Iberia, who sponsored HB 592. In an interview, Beaullieu warned that removing the second primary could have serious consequences on the election system. He has received numerous calls from fellow legislators voicing their concerns about the proposal.

Rep. Julie Emerson, R-Carencro, who backed legislation for a closed primary last year, also opposed the change. She stated in an interview that she remained “100% opposed to the change.” Meanwhile, Kleinpeter expressed no desire to push any amendment, adding he had no contact with Cassidy regarding the issue.

The speculation of a possible amendment incentivized a lobbying effort among Republican women, including national committeewoman Gena Gore, who argued it would not be beneficial for the Republican Party. “Let’s give Republicans the chance to elect the person that the majority feels is the best representative,” Gore remarked.

Treasurer John Fleming, Cassidy’s primary opponent, also voiced his objections to any changes. His candidacy could attract more Republicans before the qualifying period begins in January.

While Cassidy refrained from commenting on the potential law change on Sunday, he has been making strides to regain favor among Republicans after facing backlash for voting to convict former President Donald Trump in 2021 for inciting the Capitol riot. Cassidy has been active in his outreach, raising substantial campaign funds, supporting contentious cabinet nominees, and highlighting meetings with Trump and other prominent Republican donors.

“There was very good conversation with President Trump about the One Big Beautiful Bill,” Cassidy commented in a statement last Wednesday.