DES MOINES, Iowa — Allies of President Donald Trump have been assertively warning Republican senators who do not endorse his Cabinet selections and legislative agenda, making it clear that they may face primary challengers. This is particularly evident in the case of Iowa senator Joni Ernst, who received threats of opposition for hesitating to back Trump’s defense Secretary nominee, Pete Hegseth, prior to her eventual support.
Louisiana senator Bill Cassidy, a former physician, is currently under scrutiny for his upcoming questioning of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been put forth by Trump for the role of health secretary. In South Carolina, longtime Trump ally Lindsey Graham is also feeling the heat, having faced hostility at a local rally as the 2024 presidential campaign season unfolds.
Various individuals involved with five senators who’ve encountered backlash both online and locally shared their insights into the challenges these officials face in the upcoming electoral cycle.
Joni Ernst (Iowa)
Senator Ernst faced backlash from conservative circles after she initially refrained from endorsing Hegseth, who was confirmed following a Senate vote. Ernst, a retired lieutenant colonel in the Iowa National Guard and an Iraq War veteran, raised concerns regarding Hegseth’s previous comments about women in combat roles and allegations of sexual misconduct, which he denied. Upon confirming his nomination, Hegseth assured that he supports opportunities for all service members and committed to appointing a senior official for sexual assault prevention and response.
Potential challengers in Ernst’s race include conservative media personality Steve Deace and Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, both of whom may be encouraged to challenge her after criticism she garnered. While Deace hasn’t taken official steps, Bird has hinted at dissatisfaction with certain “D.C. politicians” ignoring their constituents. Analysts believe that her endorsement of Trump places her in a challenging position against Ernst, who, despite recent controversies, continues to hold significant favor among Iowa Republicans.
Thom Tillis (North Carolina)
Senator Tillis has drawn ire from hard-right factions for his reluctance to immediately back Trump’s first attorney general nominee, Matt Gaetz. While Gaetz withdrew, Tillis’s past vote to repeal the Defense of Marriage Act contributes to the right’s disdain.
Challengers could include Andy Nilsson, who has filed paperwork for a run, advocating for a return to traditional Republican values. Tillis previously faced multiple conservative opponents who all claimed to be further right than he is. It is expected that North Carolina will be a battleground as they prepare for potentially competitive senatorial races in the future, with the Democratic response likely coming from former Governor Roy Cooper or his successor, Josh Stein.
Bill Cassidy (Louisiana)
Senator Cassidy’s vote to convict Trump during his second impeachment has left him vulnerable, having stated that constitutional duty outweighed loyalty to any individual. As Cassidy contemplates a third election, he will be closely monitored during his hearings regarding Kennedy, who is known for his skepticism towards vaccines and medical consensus.
Cassidy has already attracted his first challenger in state Treasurer John Fleming, who believes Cassidy’s impeachment vote was detrimental to Louisiana. With Louisiana’s recent change to a closed Republican primary system, Cassidy’s standing may be more precarious if he faces a formidable opponent closely aligned with Trump.
John Cornyn (Texas)
Senator Cornyn has faced dissatisfaction within his party, criticized for his willingness to collaborate with Democrats and drawing negative reactions at GOP conventions. Despite this, he has expressed intentions for reelection in 2026, holding substantial campaign funds.
Potential opposition is seen with Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who has suggested that Cornyn should endure a primary challenge. The two have engaged in a public sparring over their political stances, with Paxton calling Cornyn’s policies anti-Trump. Yet, Cornyn’s electoral history remains strong, with strategists indicating he’s unlikely to overlook the challenges he may face and will campaign vigorously in preparation.
Lindsey Graham (South Carolina)
As Graham seeks a fifth term, he is expected to confront primary challenges as he has in previous elections. He has received censure from local GOP groups due to his willingness to engage in bipartisan agreements, and despite past criticisms of Trump, he has since established a strong alignment with the former president, who continues to support him.
With his campaign team already in place, Graham boasts significant campaign funding as he prepares for the impending electoral battle. Potential challengers include Congressman Ralph Norman and former legislator Adam Morgan. Observers suggest Graham’s close association with Trump may bolster his chances, despite the hostility he encounters at local events.
As these senators navigate their political landscapes, the landscape remains fraught with challenges, particularly as Trump’s influence continues to loom large in the Republican party.
