Tim Miller: Sen. Cassidy Chose to Lose Like a Coward | Focus Group

Senator Bill Cassidy is facing significant voter backlash in Louisiana, primarily for his vote to convict Donald Trump after January 6th. Voters perceive his subsequent attempts to align with the MAGA base, such as his vote for RFK Jr. as HHS Secretary, as 'slimy,' 'two-faced,' and 'wishy-washy,' rather than principled. This has tanked his credibility across the board, leading to a strong likelihood of him finishing third in the primary.

Voters described Cassidy as 'slimy' (00:14:04), 'two-faced' (00:14:13), and 'wishy-washy' (00:15:18) for changing his mind and performing to keep his job, not his beliefs. His support for RFK Jr. and vaccine mandates were cited as specific grievances (00:16:10, 00:16:47).

Louisiana Republicans express deep frustration with the current political class, viewing candidates as generic, self-serving, and disconnected from their core concerns. They desire leaders who are 'their own person' and focus on tangible issues like crime, education, the economy, healthcare affordability, and job opportunities, rather than cultural debates (e.g., DEI, LGBTQ+ issues). This sentiment suggests an opening for populist, working-class campaigns that avoid divisive social topics.

Voters lamented not having 'really good candidates anymore' (00:24:02) and feeling 'sick of when they have an election because it's just all it is is just mere campaigns' (00:24:21). One voter encapsulated the sentiment: 'Is crime better? Is education better? Is the economy better? No. And we don't pay our TSA workers. I don't think they care about the people. I have to vote Republican, but they don't vote for the people.' (00:33:48).

While many Republicans still see JD Vance as a 'mini Trump' and potential heir, there's a surprising 'Marco Rubio boomlet' among voters. Rubio is praised for being bilingual, calm, level-headed, polished, and able to 'mend fences,' suggesting a desire for more measured leadership. This contrasts with Vance's perceived aggression, highlighting a contradictory voter preference for both Trump's fighting spirit and a more traditional, composed political style in future leaders.

Voters liked Rubio because 'he's bilingual' (00:39:37), 'calm,' 'levelheaded,' and has 'strong character' (00:44:02), while finding JD Vance 'too aggressive' (00:41:27). One voter noted Rubio's ability to 'negotiate peace treaties' and 'make people be friends' (00:40:38).

The idea of Donald Trump Jr. running for president is largely dismissed by Louisiana Republicans. Voters perceive him as lacking qualifications, with his successes attributed to his father. While some suggest he might be viable 'down the road' with more experience, there's no immediate enthusiasm. This indicates a potential 'Trump fatigue' or a desire for a 'Trump break' among some voters, with some even preferring Jared Kushner due to his perceived experience.

Voters stated 'hard pass on him' (00:48:11), noting 'you didn't really hear much of his name before Trump became president' (00:48:15) and questioning his 'knowledge behind him to lead our country' (00:48:38). Many suggested 'not in 28' (00:49:32) and some preferred Jared Kushner for his 'more experience' (00:49:52).