Louisiana’s conservative voters demand leaders who uphold the America First agenda, but RINOs in Congress and the state legislature have repeatedly defied these expectations. Below is a timeline of key events exposing the RINO crisis and the grassroots fight to reclaim the LAGOP, drawn from recent developments:
- 2021: Cassidy’s Impeachment Vote Sparks Outrage
U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy voted to convict President Trump in the 2021 impeachment trial, one of seven Republicans to do so. The LAGOP swiftly censured him, with state GOP leaders condemning his betrayal of conservative principles. Cassidy’s actions, including pushing vaccine passports and COVID testing mandates, fueled RINO accusations.
- 2022–2023: Cassidy Backs Bipartisan Bills
Cassidy supported the 2022 Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, a gun control measure criticized by conservatives and labeled RINO-friendly by Trump. His 46% Heritage Foundation score for the 118th Congress and soft stance on immigration reform further alienated the MAGA base.
- 2024: Letlow’s Rise Raises Suspicions
Rep. Julia Letlow, backed by Gov. Jeff Landry, emerged as a potential RINO in the U.S. House. Grassroots conservatives began scrutinizing her voting record for deviations from America First principles, especially after her 48% RINOScorus™ score surfaced.
- April 2025: RRP Targets Louisiana in State Surveillance Program
RRP included Louisiana in its State Surveillance Program, focusing on Cassidy and Letlow as key RINO targets. The program identified legislators with low conservative scores and rallied local GOP districts to push for primary challengers.
- June 2025: GatorPAC Partnership Boosts Louisiana Efforts
RRP announced a strategic partnership with GatorPAC, led by Col. Rob Manes, on June 12, 2025. The collaboration aims to educate voters and support America First candidates through X Spaces town halls and the America First Academy.
- Ongoing: Local GOP Push for Accountability
GOP districts in Lafayette and Jefferson Parishes are organizing to censure state legislators like Rep. Neil Riser for supporting bipartisan coastal restoration projects. These efforts aim to bar RINOs from LAGOP endorsements and funding.
Why RINOs Are a Problem in Louisiana
Louisiana’s RINOs exploit the state’s conservative base while advancing moderate or liberal policies, undermining the America First agenda. Here’s why they’re a threat and what’s at stake:
- Betrayal of Voter Trust
RINOs like Cassidy and Letlow campaign as conservatives but vote with Democrats on key issues like gun control and immigration, eroding trust in the LAGOP. Cassidy’s impeachment vote and Letlow’s establishment ties deceive voters who expect bold conservative leadership.
- Bipartisan Compromises Dilute Conservative Goals
RINOs supporting bipartisan bills, such as coastal restoration projects reliant on federal funds, prioritize establishment interests over fiscal conservatism and local priorities. These compromises block legislation protecting energy development and conservative fiscal goals.
- National Impact of Louisiana RINOs
Cassidy’s votes against Trump and conservative nominees weaken the America First agenda in Washington, D.C. His actions, alongside Letlow’s moderate leanings, embolden the establishment.
- Lack of Accountability Emboldens RINOs
Weak LAGOP sanctions, like the unenforced 2021 censure of Cassidy, signal to RINOs that they can defy the base without consequences. Grassroots efforts aim to enforce accountability through censures, funding cuts, and primary challenges.
The RINO Rogues’ Gallery: Louisiana’s Top Targets:
Here are the key RINOs undermining Louisiana’s conservative agenda and why they must be removed:
- Sen. Bill Cassidy (Election 2026)
Cassidy’s vote to convict Trump in 2021, support for gun control, and push for vaccine mandates earned him a 46% Heritage Foundation score and a 42% RINOScorus™ score. Censured by the LAGOP, he remains a top RINO target.
- Rep. Julia Letlow (Election 2026)
Letlow’s 48% RINOScorus™ score and Gov. Landry’s backing raise red flags. Her votes for bipartisan infrastructure bills and failure to fully embrace Trump’s agenda mark her as an establishment RINO.
- Rep. Neil Riser (Election 2026)
Riser’s support for federal-funded coastal projects and bipartisan education bills have drawn censure threats from Lafayette Parish. His 50% RINOScorus™ score reflects moderate tendencies, making him a state-level RINO target.
The 2026 Elections: A Defining Moment
The 2026 elections, including Cassidy’s Senate race and key House contests, are a critical opportunity to oust RINOs and install America First leaders. RRP is vetting candidates through its proprietary questionnaire, focusing on secure borders, election integrity, and fiscal responsibility. With a strong conservative slate, Louisiana could lead the America First revival and counter RINO influence.
