Trump tightens grip on GOP after Massie’s defeat in Kentucky primary - US politics live
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Donald Trump has strengthened his control over the Republican Party following the defeat of independent-minded Congressman Thomas Massie in the Kentucky Republican House primary.
- Massie lost to Trump-endorsed challenger Ed Gallrein by 55% to 45% in the most expensive House primary in US history, with over $32 million spent.
- Trump actively campaigned against Massie due to his opposition on key issues like the Iran war, Epstein files release, and Trump's tax bill, promoting Gallrein, a retired Navy SEAL and farmer.
- Massie criticized party loyalty over principles in his concession speech, highlighting concerns about legislative integrity and "mob rule."
- This victory is part of a broader pattern where Trump-backed candidates have successfully unseated dissenting Republican incumbents, with Texas' upcoming Senate primary runoff between Ken Paxton and John Cornyn as the next significant test of Trump's influence.