Rep. Thomas Massie lost Kentucky’s Republican primary to Trump-backed challenger Ed Gallrein, according to projections from the Associated Press, NBC and CNN. The result marked another victory for President Donald Trump as he continues reshaping the Republican Party ahead of the midterm elections.
Gallrein, a retired Navy SEAL and farmer, campaigned heavily on his loyalty to Trump. He accused Massie of repeatedly opposing the president and distancing himself from the GOP agenda. Trump personally endorsed Gallrein and campaigned for him earlier this year.
Thomas Massie after losing Kentucky Republican Primary:
— Remarks (@remarks) May 20, 2026
"I would have come out sooner, but I had to call my opponent to concede and it took a while to find Ed Gallrein in Tel Aviv." pic.twitter.com/yV4aW7vrqP
The report said the race became the most expensive House primary in U.S. history, with more than $32 million spent. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also joined Gallrein during the final days of campaigning.
Massie, who served in Congress since 2012, drew Trump’s anger after criticizing military action in Iran and opposing parts of the president’s agenda. Despite arguing that he still supported Trump, Massie became one of several Republican dissenters defeated this election cycle.
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