Blake Miguez challenges Bill Cassidy for US Senate seat
- Blake Miguez, a Republican state senator, officially declared his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat held by Bill Cassidy.
- His campaign criticizes Cassidy for voting to convict Trump, aiming to rally conservative supporters dissatisfied with the incumbent.
- The 2026 election will occur under new primary rules, potentially complicating Cassidy's reelection efforts.
In Louisiana, state Senator Blake Miguez officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Bill Cassidy, targeting the 2026 election. Miguez, a Republican and veteran state legislator, is critical of Cassidy's actions, particularly his vote to convict former President Donald Trump during the impeachment trial following the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021. This vote has positioned Cassidy unfavorably within certain Republican circles, leading to Miguez's claim that Cassidy has 'betrayed' the state and its principles. Miguez aims to capitalize on Cassidy’s declining support among party loyalists, given his controversial actions that have sparked backlash. Miguez's campaign strategy is rooted in appealing to conservative voters, utilizing his strong support for Second Amendment rights and his past record on gun legislation as a focal point. He has emphasized the need for a new representative who will stand against what he describes as the 'phony' politics of Cassidy. Despite Cassidy's incumbency and significant fundraising advantage, which topped $7.4 million at the end of the first quarter, Miguez seeks to galvanize a voter base that has been dismayed by Cassidy’s actions. The upcoming election will introduce a new primary system in Louisiana, where only registered Republicans will vote in the GOP primary, which Miguez and some analysts believe may disadvantage Cassidy, who has previously benefited from more open contests. Challenger Nancy Letlow, a Republican U.S. Representative, is also rumored to be considering a run, adding more competition to Cassidy's reelection efforts. Miguez's announcement video showcases his stance, campaign message, and commitment to fighting against perceived political betrayals. As Louisiana gears up for the 2026 election, the internal dynamics of the Republican Party will heavily influence the strategies and outcomes of the candidates vying for the Senate seat, setting the stage for an intense political battle.