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Trump slams Massie, backs Gallrein as Kentucky debates stall

5/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump called Rep. Thomas Massie a “Third Rate Congressman,” labeled him disloyal, and endorsed Ed Gallrein.
Rep. Thomas Massie appeared alone on a KET debate in Lexington after Ed Gallrein declined, defending his independent record and citing the PRIME Act for direct meat sales.
Rep. Andy Barr, Nate Morris, and other Kentucky Republicans also declined KET debate invitations, drawing criticism before the May 19 primary.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump called Rep. Thomas Massie a “Third Rate Congressman,” labeled him disloyal, and endorsed Ed Gallrein.
Rep. Thomas Massie appeared alone on a KET debate in Lexington after Ed Gallrein declined, defending his independent record and citing the PRIME Act for direct meat sales.
Rep. Andy Barr, Nate Morris, and other Kentucky Republicans also declined KET debate invitations, drawing criticism before the May 19 primary.