President Donald Trump scored a big victory against one of his most vocal Republican critics, Thomas Massie. Trump celebrated Ed Gallrein's win against Massie in the Northern Kentucky primary, calling Massie the 'worst congressman in the Republican Party.' However, Charlie Kirk, a loyal follower and friend of Trump, had previously praised Massie as a 'terrific' congressman.
With nearly all the votes counted, Gallrein had about 55% to Massie's 45%, according to Decision Desk HQ. Trump then posted about his influence in the race, saying Massie was 'totally dishonest and desperate.'
Over the past few months, Trump has used terms like 'lowlife', 'moron', and a 'disloyal, ungracious, and sanctimonious fool' for Massie. However, Charlie Kirk had a completely different opinion of Massie, praising him as a 'terrific' congressman who loves the Constitution and liberty.
Gallrein built his campaign almost entirely around loyalty to Trump, avoiding media appearances and refusing to debate Massie. The Kentucky primary became a national test of whether Republican lawmakers could openly challenge Trump and survive politically.