A political action committee associated with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has committed $1 million to support a potential challenger to Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La. This development comes as Cassidy, who is the chair of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, played a crucial role in advancing Kennedy’s confirmation as Health and Human Services secretary.
On Sunday evening, MAHA PAC announced its financial backing for Rep. Julia Letlow, a Republican from Louisiana. Although Letlow has not officially declared her candidacy for Cassidy’s Senate seat, the endorsement from former President Donald Trump over the weekend signals a competitive Republican primary that could jeopardize Cassidy’s reelection prospects. Cassidy was one of six Senate Republicans who voted to convict Trump during his second impeachment trial in 2021.
MAHA PAC co-founder Tony Lyons emphasized the need for a senator who aligns with Trump’s commitment to address the chronic disease epidemic. He stated, “Congresswoman Letlow has proven herself a tireless champion for Louisiana families. We strongly encourage her to answer President Trump’s call and enter this race.”
The relationship between Cassidy and Kennedy has deteriorated in recent months, particularly regarding vaccine policies. Cassidy, who is a physician and vocal supporter of vaccines, has criticized Kennedy for diminishing the number of vaccines recommended on the childhood vaccine schedule and for dismissing the former head of the Centers for Disease Control.
Implications of Support for Letlow
Cassidy’s pivotal vote in February 2023 to advance Kennedy’s nomination for HHS secretary was notable, especially given his opposition to some of Kennedy’s stances. He expressed concerns about Kennedy’s promises regarding the recommendations of the CDC’s independent vaccine advisory panel. However, Kennedy later dismissed all 17 members of that committee, replacing them with individuals who held more skeptical views on vaccines.
In September 2023, these new appointees voted to relax recommendations for certain vaccinations. Subsequently, Kennedy bypassed the committee entirely and announced a revised childhood vaccine schedule in January 2024, aligning it with guidelines from Denmark and other European nations.
The potential for a heated primary race looms as MAHA PAC, which has been active in promoting Kennedy’s priorities, shifts its focus to supporting Letlow. The committee is led by Lyons and Mark Gorton, who previously raised significant funds for a pro-Kennedy super PAC during his presidential campaign. Their finance committee comprises several long-time associates of Kennedy and has been instrumental in advocating for his agenda.
With Trump’s endorsement and MAHA PAC’s substantial financial support, Letlow’s candidacy could significantly alter the dynamics of the upcoming election, putting Cassidy’s position at risk. Cassidy’s campaign did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the backing of Letlow by MAHA PAC, leaving uncertainty about how this challenge might unfold as the political landscape in Louisiana continues to evolve.
