METAIRIE, La. - Public Service Commissioner Eric Skrmetta threw his hat in the ring today for U.S. Senate, becoming the latest Republican to challenge Bill Cassidy in what's shaping up to be a crowded 2026 primary.
Skrmetta, who serves District 1 on the PSC, called himself a "staunch constitutionalist" and highlighted his role as Trump's Louisiana campaign chairman. The emphasis on Trump loyalty comes as Cassidy faces continued criticism from some far-right Republicans over his impeachment vote.
"I've been fighting for Louisiana families and conservative values on the Public Service Commission, and I'm ready to take that fight to Washington," Skrmetta said in his announcement.
The timing reflects ongoing tensions within the Louisiana Republican Party. Cassidy has faced criticism from Republican voters since he voted to convict Trump after January 6th, leading to his censure by the state GOP in 2021. That's created a perceived opening for Trump-aligned challengers like Skrmetta.
He joins State Treasurer John Fleming and State Rep. Blake Miguez, who are among the top challengers facing Cassidy from the right.
The new closed primary system could give conservative challengers an edge, though “No Party” voters may complicate the outcome. Unlike Louisiana’s long-standing jungle primary, where all candidates appeared on a single ballot regardless of party, the 2026 election will feature partisan primaries for the first time in decades. According to the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office, only registered Republicans and unaffiliated “No Party” voters may cast ballots in the Republican primary. Voters registered with a third party are excluded, and “No Party” voters may only participate in one party’s primary.
However, Cassidy maintains a significant financial advantage. Politico reported that "Incumbent Bill Cassidy has nine million dollars on hand" compared to Fleming's roughly $2.1 million and Miguez's $1.7 million.
The growing field of conservative challengers raises questions about how they'll compete for similar voter bases. Fleming, Miguez, and other candidates are already appealing to Trump-aligned Republicans, and Skrmetta's entry further divides that constituency.
The test of Trump’s influence within the Louisiana GOP comes at a time of deepening controversy, growing backlash, and slipping poll numbers for the former president nationwide. According to a recent Gallup poll, Trump’s approval dropped to 37%, with independent voter approval at just 29%, both historic lows.
Trump has yet to endorse a candidate in the race.
