Louisiana’s U.S. Senate race was set to follow a familiar script, with Rep. Julia Letlow poised to secure a straightforward victory. Yet her near-majority finish in the primary has sparked speculation that this race could take an unexpected turn.

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy is seeking a third term by highlighting how he has steered federal dollars to Louisiana and passed key legislation. He hopes that tangible results will resonate with Republican primary voters, even as he faces a Trump-backed challenger.