Sen. Cassidy faces backlash as Louisiana GOP doubles down as Trump's party As the second impeachment trial shifted to the defense of the former president, many Louisiana Republicans are focused on Cassidy’s earlier vote. Author: Thanh Truong / Eyewitness News Published: 7:22 PM CST February 12, 2021 Updated: 7:22 PM CST February 12, 2021 As attorneys for former President Trump present their defense, Republican Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy is defending his recent vote on the constitutionality of the impeachment trial. He’s facing a backlash from many members of the Louisiana GOP. In a brief Twitter video this week, Senator Cassidy covered a lot of ground.