Former President Donald Trump launched a scathing critique against Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana, branding him as “one of the worst senators in the United States Senate.” This outburst from Trump, who is 77 years old and the presumptive GOP nominee for the upcoming presidential election, was shared on the platform Truth Social. Trump’s anger stems from Cassidy’s decision in 2021 to vote in favor of convicting him during his impeachment trial, which was centered around Trump’s involvement in the January 6 Capitol riot.
Cassidy, among seven Senate Republicans who voted to convict Trump of inciting an insurrection, faced Trump’s ire as he described Cassidy as a “TOTAL FLAKE” and a “total ‘stiff,'” suggesting that Louisiana did not require Cassidy’s protection because they had Trump’s support. Trump reminisced about Cassidy’s return to Louisiana after the vote, claiming he was met with disdain and opposition, notably with harsh language.
In his post, Trump also touched on his busy schedule, combating what he views as political adversaries, but made time to express his disdain for Cassidy, whom he previously criticized. Trump insinuated that Cassidy’s political aspirations within Louisiana, including a potential run for governor, were thwarted by his own actions and Trump’s endorsement of another candidate, Jeff Landry, leading to Cassidy being “shunned” in his own state.
Cassidy has been vocal about his skepticism towards Trump’s viability as a candidate in the 2024 presidential race, suggesting that only President Joe Biden and Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis were credible contenders. However, with DeSantis out of the race and Trump leading in polls against Biden, Cassidy’s stance seems increasingly isolated. Additionally, Cassidy’s recent comments criticizing Trump’s language towards migrants as “dehumanizing” underscore the ongoing tensions between him and the former president.
Currently, Cassidy is among 15 GOP senators who have not endorsed Trump for the 2024 presidential race, highlighting a division within the party. Requests for comments from Cassidy’s office were made by the media, indicating the story’s ongoing development and the keen interest in the dynamics of Republican Party politics as the election approaches.