Thomas Massie loses Republican primary in Kentucky

US President Donald Trump’s Endorsement Pays Off in Kentucky Primary

In a primary election held on Tuesday, Congressman Thomas Massie lost to challenger Ed Gallrein with an estimated 72 percent of the vote counted. According to the latest results, Gallrein led with 54.4 percent of the vote, while Massie secured 45.6 percent.

The Associated Press news agency has called the race for Gallrein, who received backing from Trump’s endorsement and significant funding from pro-Trump and pro-Israel lobby groups. The contest was one of the most expensive House of Representatives primaries in US history, with over $32 million spent on advertising.

Massie had been a vocal critic of Trump, opposing military action in Iran and Venezuela, criticizing aid to Israel, and resisting parts of the president’s agenda. Trump had attacked Massie, calling him a “moron” and a “major sleazebag.” Despite this, some voters, including Rob Barkley, a former Trump supporter who backed Massie, said Trump’s attacks had pushed them towards the congressman.

The primary election in Kentucky was closely watched as a test of whether Trump’s hold on Republican voters remains firm despite concerns over his policies. Several other Republican lawmakers have faced similar challenges in recent weeks, including Senator Bill Cassidy of Louisiana and dissenting state lawmakers in Indiana.

Gallrein’s campaign was seen as a victory for Trump’s efforts to punish dissent within the Republican Party. The president has been using his endorsement power to support candidates who share his views, while also criticizing those who do not.

Source: Al Jazeera