Senator Bill Cassidy Declines to Endorse Trump for Reelection Amid Concerns Over Rhetoric and Policy

Senator Bill Cassidy, a Republican from Louisiana, who was among the minority of GOP leaders to vote for the impeachment of former President Donald Trump following the Capitol riot, declined to offer his endorsement to Trump as the former president seeks another term in office.

During an appearance on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Cassidy was questioned about Trump’s remarks at a rally in Ohio where he warned of a potential “bloodbath” if he is not reelected and reiterated his stance on imposing tariffs on foreign-made cars. Trump also made inflammatory comments about immigrants, suggesting that some accused migrants are “not people.”

In response, Cassidy expressed concerns about the overall tone of Trump’s speech, stating that it raises questions about whether Trump should hold the presidency again. While Cassidy did not shift his support to Trump’s potential rival, he highlighted reservations about both candidates, stating that many Americans are considering third-party options due to their concerns.

Cassidy also voiced disagreement with Trump’s recent remarks regarding pardoning individuals convicted of crimes related to the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack. When asked directly if he would endorse Trump, the presumed GOP nominee, in the general election, Cassidy stated his intention to vote for a Republican candidate without specifically mentioning Trump by name.

Last year, Cassidy called for Trump to withdraw from the 2024 Republican primary race, and in January 2021, he voted to convict Trump in the Senate on one article of impeachment alleging incitement of insurrection.