Kentucky Primary Results: Ed Galine Defeats Thomas Massey

In a surprising twist during the recent primary election, retired Navy SEAL Ed Galine triumphed over Republican Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massey. This outcome was bolstered by substantial support from President Donald Trump and a hefty influx of external funding.

Galine secured the primary victory by a margin of 9 points, achieving 54.4% to Massey’s 45.6%, according to reports from the Associated Press. Notably, Trump played a crucial role in orchestrating Massey’s defeat, as the congressman had increasingly positioned himself as a political adversary to the former president. This rivalry can be traced back to Massey’s multiple votes against Trump’s signature initiatives, his calls to release information regarding Jeffrey Epstein, and his outspoken criticism of the Iran war.

Before the election, polls indicated a tie between the two candidates. However, Galine’s standing improved considerably in the final days following accusations from Massey’s ex-girlfriend regarding his involvement in a hush-money scheme.

The campaign was marked by aggressive attacks, with both candidates accusing each other forcefully. One Super PAC supporting Galine even released an AI-generated ad depicting Massey alongside progressive Democratic figures, implying he was colluding with them in the America First movement. Conversely, Massey’s campaign criticized Galine for alleged “woke” tendencies and questioned his conservative principles on various social issues.

This primary saw more than $32 million in advertising spending, making it one of the most expensive House primary races in U.S. history. Groups like AIPAC and other pro-Israel advocates contributed over $9 million toward Massey’s ouster, while Galine received substantial backing from organizations like the Republican Jewish Coalition.

Despite the pressure, Massey still managed to raise over $2.5 million in the first quarter of 2026, attracting many first-time donors. The rift between him and Trump had only deepened over time, especially after Massey publicly criticized the president’s approach to the Iran conflict.

Days ahead of the election, Massey faced serious accusations from his ex-girlfriend, who claimed he offered her $5,000 not to speak out against another congressperson, exacerbating concerns about his campaign. In the pre-election atmosphere, poll results varied widely, with initial data showing Massa in the lead, but shifting dramatically after the scandal broke.

As this election cycle unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how Galine’s victory influences future dynamics within the Republican Party in Kentucky and beyond.