Hegseth wades into Massie race in Kentucky to excoriate Trump critic
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly criticized Rep. Thomas Massie, a Trump critic, during a Kentucky congressional primary, endorsing Massie's rival Ed Gallrein while claiming to speak as a private citizen.
- Hegseth's involvement marks a rare political intervention by a Cabinet member amid ongoing conflict, highlighting Trump's efforts to assert influence over the Republican Party ahead of the midterm elections.
- The Kentucky 4th District primary has become the most expensive congressional primary in U.S. history, with Trump allies heavily funding the campaign against Massie, who opposes the Iran war and has challenged Trump on other issues.
- Massie accused Trump and his allies of desperation, suggesting Hegseth's appearance was a sign of the president's frustration and political struggles.
- The Pentagon defended Hegseth's participation, stating he attended in a personal capacity without using taxpayer funds, and that his actions were legally vetted and did not violate the Hatch Act.