Trump Endorses Navy SEAL Against Congressman Massie

On Friday, former President Donald Trump declared his support for Navy SEAL Ed Galine in the upcoming primary against Republican Congressman Thomas Massie from Kentucky.

Trump has been vocal about his criticisms of Massie lately, suggesting that he and his team are looking to back new Republican candidates. In a detailed message on Truth Social, Trump labeled Massie a “third-rate lawmaker” and a “weak, pathetic RINO,” claiming he should be removed from his position “as soon as possible.” He went on to express his endorsement of Galine.

“The great people of Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District have given us the mission to ‘Make America Great Again,’ and helping us with that is Captain Ed Galine—Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, fifth-generation Kentucky farmer, and a true America First Patriot,” Trump wrote. He described Galine as a “brave veteran” who understands the “wisdom and courage” necessary to protect the country and support veterans.

While Galine has not formally declared his candidacy against Massie yet, Trump stated he hopes the Navy SEAL enters the race and assured that he would have the “full and complete support” from Trump if he does. Trump highlighted that Galine has about 9% support in the polls, suggesting that many in Kentucky recognize his potential. He criticized Massie for voting against Republicans, indicating that it’s an easy stance for the radical left to take.

In a response to this, Massie indicated to the Daily Caller News Foundation that Trump’s advisers seem to be panicking about selecting a challenger for him. He mentioned that Galine, who resides in his district, previously stated he would be honored to serve if needed.

“After being rejected by every elected official in the 4th District, Trump’s consultants hit the panic button by choosing Ed Galine, a clear failed candidate,” Massie remarked, adding that Galine had been trying to gain their support for some time.

Massie previously criticized Trump’s approach to Iran in June, stating it was unconstitutional. He had even worked with Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna on a resolution aimed at stopping any “unjustified hostilities” with Iran. Additionally, he collaborated with a few Republicans and a majority of Democrats on a petition for advancing the Epstein File Transparency Act.

In response to his actions, Trump accused Massie of “truth socialism” and initiated efforts to remove him due to his political stances. Despite the tensions between competing factions, Republicans have managed to fend off primary challengers in recent election cycles.