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Trump Backs Opponent in Heated Kentucky Primary Showdown

3/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump will campaign in Hebron, Kentucky on Wednesday against Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and back Massie's primary opponent Ed Gallrein, who will attend.
Massie has clashed with Trump over foreign policy and the Justice Department's Epstein case.
Massie will not attend the event due to a prior commitment.
The May 19 primary will test Trump's influence over Republican voters and his economic messaging despite rising gas prices.

History

Historical Context

Donald Trump won the Republican nomination in 2016 after a tumultuous primary season featuring 17 candidates, the largest in U.S. history. His campaign garnered over 14 million votes, the highest ever in Republican primaries. The ongoing primary in Kentucky highlights tensions between Trump and established Republicans like Thomas Massie, particularly over foreign policy and economic issues, as rising gas prices continue to impact voters.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump will campaign in Hebron, Kentucky on Wednesday against Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and back Massie's primary opponent Ed Gallrein, who will attend.
Massie has clashed with Trump over foreign policy and the Justice Department's Epstein case.
Massie will not attend the event due to a prior commitment.
The May 19 primary will test Trump's influence over Republican voters and his economic messaging despite rising gas prices.

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