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Defense Secretary Hegseth Backs Gallrein in Costliest Kentucky Primary

5/19/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a rare Kentucky campaign stop, backing Ed Gallrein against Rep. Thomas Massie and invoking President Donald Trump.
Hegseth said he spoke as a private citizen and that the Pentagon confirmed no taxpayer funds were used and found no Hatch Act violation.
Trump allies have poured tens of millions into the race, making it the costliest primary and a test of President Donald Trump’s influence.

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Story summary

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a rare Kentucky campaign stop, backing Ed Gallrein against Rep. Thomas Massie and invoking President Donald Trump.
Hegseth said he spoke as a private citizen and that the Pentagon confirmed no taxpayer funds were used and found no Hatch Act violation.
Trump allies have poured tens of millions into the race, making it the costliest primary and a test of President Donald Trump’s influence.