Tue Oct 21 11:10:00 UTC 2025: News Article:

Trump Backs Navy SEAL Veteran Ed Gallrein in Kentucky Primary Challenge Against Rep. Massie

FRANKFORT, KY – Former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein, a fifth-generation Kentucky farmer, has announced his candidacy for Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District, challenging incumbent Republican Rep. Thomas Massie in the upcoming GOP primary. Gallrein’s bid is backed by former President Donald Trump, who has publicly criticized Massie.

“I’ve dedicated my life to serving my country, and I’m ready to answer the call again,” Gallrein said in a statement shared with Fox News Digital. He emphasized his alignment with Trump, stating, “This district is Trump Country. The President doesn’t need obstacles in Congress – he needs backup. I’ll defeat Thomas Massie, stand shoulder to shoulder with President Trump, and deliver the America First results Kentuckians voted for.”

Trump endorsed Gallrein on social media, calling Massie a “Third Rate Congressman, a Weak and Pathetic RINO, and a totally ineffective LOSER.” The former president praised Gallrein as a “Brave Combat Veteran and a very successful Businessman” who would prioritize border security and the Second Amendment.

Gallrein served three decades in the Navy, rising to the rank of captain and serving multiple tours with SEAL Team SIX. He has earned four Bronze Stars and two Presidential Unit Citations. He also has deep roots in Kentucky agriculture, as his family built Kentucky’s largest dairy farm and Gallrein Grain Farms, one of the state’s largest grain operations.

Massie has responded to Trump’s endorsement by labeling Gallrein a “failed candidate and establishment hack,” citing his previous unsuccessful run for the state Senate. He says Trump’s consultants are pushing the “panic button” by backing Gallrein.

Massie has clashed with Trump over legislative issues and is also leading a push for the release of Justice Department files on Jeffrey Epstein, a move opposed by the White House and House GOP leaders. A super PAC aligned with Trump allies has already spent nearly $2 million on TV ads targeting Massie.

Despite the attacks, Massie reported a record fundraising quarter, pulling in over $750,000. His district covers the northeastern part of Kentucky, including Louisville’s eastern suburbs and Cincinnati’s Kentucky suburbs.

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