President Donald Trump may have temporarily avoided a major conflict in the Middle East, but he is now facing a new battle closer to home. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) has become the target of Trump’s political operation, which is determined to unseat the outspoken congressman in the upcoming GOP primary.
Massie has been a thorn in the president’s side in the past, but his recent threat to introduce a resolution aimed at limiting presidential war powers has escalated tensions. This move came as Trump was already angered by Massie’s efforts to block important legislation before the Republicans’ self-imposed July 4 deadline.
Despite easily overcoming challenges in the past, including opposition from pro-Israel donors, Massie’s strong independent political image may not be enough to withstand the onslaught from Trump’s allies. The president has promised to campaign aggressively against Massie next year, with his political operation launching a super PAC dedicated solely to defeating the Kentucky congressman.
“He’s probably more vulnerable than he’s been since he first won in a primary because of all this,” said GOP strategist Adam Koenig. “There’s money outside of Trump world ready to go after Massie.”
Trump’s campaign against Massie gained momentum after the congressman voted against the party’s tax-and-spending package for the president’s domestic policy priorities. The president’s political apparatus publicly announced its plans to target Massie through a super PAC named Kentucky MAGA, led by key Trump allies Chris LaCivita and pollster Tony Fabrizio.
“He has established himself as a contrarian for contrarian sake,” LaCivita said in a text message to POLITICO. “He should be a man and switch parties instead of posing as a Republican.”
Trump and Massie have had a tumultuous relationship, with the president previously calling for Massie to be thrown out of the Republican Party. Despite endorsing Massie’s reelection bid in 2022 and receiving support from Massie in the 2024 presidential race, Trump is now determined to remove the congressman from office.
Massie has consistently opposed Trump’s legislative agenda, including voting against a stopgap government funding bill in March. Now, the president appears to be following through on his threats by mobilizing a super PAC to target Massie.
“I think there’s a real opportunity…they’re going to spend upwards of $30 million to defeat Thomas Massie,” said a Kentucky GOP political operative. There are also rumors that AIPAC, a prominent pro-Israel group, is preparing to spend heavily in the May 2026 primary, signaling potential resistance to Massie’s anti-war efforts.
Despite the mounting pressure, Massie remains defiant. He has embraced the fight against Trump and his allies, leveraging social media to raise funds and increase his exposure. Massie is also committed to moving forward with his war powers resolution if the ceasefire between Iran and Israel falters.
As the primary threat looms, speculation abounds regarding potential challengers to Massie. State Rep. Aaron Reed, a retired Navy Seal and gun shop owner, is considered a likely contender, as is state Rep. Kimberly Moser, who has cultivated support from the Trump wing of the party. Outsiders like political pundit Scott Jennings or former gubernatorial candidate Kelly Craft may also enter the race.
“I think it’s too soon to know if his outright opposition to what Trump has done – and I think it’s pretty horrible what [Massie’s] done – will make a difference,” said Ellen Williams, a former chair of the Kentucky GOP. “You can’t just put anybody up against him and spend a shitload of money.” Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District has become a battleground between President Donald Trump and Rep. Thomas Massie, with the president openly criticizing the congressman for his opposition to a major bill. However, despite Trump’s attacks, Massie seems to have strong support within his district, which spans from the northern border along Ohio and Indiana to the outskirts of the Louisville metro area.
The district is home to a significant number of “liberty faction” members of the Kentucky Republican Party, who are drawn to libertarian-leaning Republicans like Massie and Sen. Rand Paul. Senator Paul, who has also faced criticism from Trump in the past, has come out in support of Massie, emphasizing his popularity in Kentucky and pledging to continue backing him.
Fellow Kentucky Republican Rep. James Comer described Massie’s district as unique, highlighting the diverse mix of constituents that seem to appreciate Massie’s independent stance. Former Kentucky Secretary of State Trey Grayson believes that Trump may be underestimating Massie’s support in the district, pointing out that on policy issues, Massie often prevails over the president.
Grayson also warned of potential repercussions for Trump if Massie successfully fends off a primary challenge. He suggested that other Republicans who have reservations about Trump’s actions may be emboldened to speak out if Massie emerges victorious.
Massie has never faced a serious threat in the GOP primary, consistently winning by comfortable margins in past elections. However, with Trump’s involvement in the upcoming primary, Massie acknowledged the need to ramp up his campaign efforts. He speculated on possible scenarios where Trump’s endorsement could sway the race, but remained confident in his ability to navigate the challenges ahead.
As the primary election approaches, the dynamics in Kentucky’s 4th District are likely to evolve. While Trump’s influence could impact the outcome, Massie’s strong base of support and track record of success suggest that he is a formidable contender in the upcoming race. The district’s unique blend of constituents and political affiliations make it a key battleground in the ongoing struggle between traditional Republican values and the influence of the Trump administration.
