First Thing: Trump critic Thomas Massie defeated in Kentucky Republican House primary
Thomas Massie, a seven-term incumbent congressman and critic of Donald Trump, was defeated in the Kentucky Republican primary by Ed Gallrein, a candidate endorsed by Trump. This election is seen as a reflection of Trump's influence within the Republican Party, as Gallrein's victory signals a shift towards more MAGA-aligned candidates. The primary results also highlight ongoing tensions within the GOP, particularly regarding Trump's foreign policy and spending decisions.
- ▪Thomas Massie lost his primary race to Ed Gallrein in Kentucky's fourth congressional district.
- ▪Gallrein, a retired Navy SEAL, was endorsed by Donald Trump for the position.
- ▪Massie has been a vocal critic of Trump, opposing him on issues such as government spending and foreign policy.
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Thomas Massie speaks in Hebron, Kentucky, after losing his primary race to Ed Gallrein. Photograph: Carolyn Kaster/APView image in fullscreenThomas Massie speaks in Hebron, Kentucky, after losing his primary race to Ed Gallrein. Photograph: Carolyn Kaster/APFirst Thing newsletterUS newsFirst Thing: Trump critic Thomas Massie defeated in Kentucky Republican House primarySeven-term incumbent had spoken out against Iran war, government spending and Jeffrey Epstein files. Plus, Trump’s ‘board of peace’ receives just $23m to rebuild Gaza Don’t already get First Thing in your inbox? Sign up here Clea SkopelitiWed 20 May 2026 07.10 EDTLast modified on Wed 20 May 2026 07.36 EDTSharePrefer the Guardian on GoogleGood morning.Voters in northern Kentucky on Tuesday rejected the incumbent congressman…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at the Guardian.
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