Trump-Endorsed Ex-Navy SEAL Enters GOP Primary Against Kentucky Rep. Massie

Ed Gallrein, a retired Navy SEAL and Kentucky farmer, has entered the GOP primary for Kentucky's 4th Congressional District, challenging incumbent Representative Thomas Massie. Gallrein is strongly backed by President Donald Trump, who has criticized Massie as ineffective and labeled him a "weak" and "pathetic RINO," asserting that Gallrein would better support his America First agenda including border security and Second Amendment rights. Gallrein emphasizes his military service, including deployments with SEAL Team SIX and receiving multiple honors, as well as his deep Kentucky roots as a fifth-generation farmer. Massie, a seven-term congressman known for his independence and criticism of Trump, has condemned Gallrein as a "failed candidate and establishment hack," highlighting Gallrein's prior unsuccessful run for a state Senate seat and has raised significant campaign funds to counter Trump's super PAC efforts against him. The primary race is seen as a litmus test of Trump's influence in Kentucky's Republican base, with Massie appealing to libertarian-leaning voters despite Trump's broad popularity in the state. This contest underscores the ongoing rift within the Republican Party between Trump's loyalists and more independent figures like Massie.