Former President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed Captain Ed Gallrein in the race for Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District, while sharply criticizing incumbent Rep. Thomas Massie. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described Massie as a “weak and pathetic RINO” and urged supporters to back Gallrein, a Navy SEAL and Army Ranger. Massie responded on X, defending his positions on foreign aid, deficits, and other issues.
Trump’s Endorsement of Gallrein
In a detailed post on Truth Social, Trump announced his full support for Captain Ed Gallrein, who officially filed to run for Congress. Trump highlighted Gallrein’s military background as a Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and combat veteran, as well as his status as a fifth-generation Kentucky farmer and successful businessman. He noted that Gallrein is “central casting” and a “true Patriot.”
Trump emphasized Gallrein’s policy priorities, stating that he would work to defend the country, support the military and veterans, and ensure “PEACE THROUGH STRENGTH.” He also mentioned Gallrein’s support for a recent attack on Nicolas Maduro, the dictator of Venezuela. Additionally, Trump outlined Gallrein’s focus on creating jobs, cutting taxes and regulations, promoting “MADE IN THE U.S.A.,” supporting farmers and American agriculture, unleashing energy dominance, keeping the border secure, stopping migrant crime, and defending the Second Amendment.
Trump called on “MAGA Warriors” to rally behind Gallrein, describing him as the candidate best positioned to defeat Massie. He stated, “Captain Ed Gallrein has my Complete and Total Endorsement against ‘Congressman’ Thomas Massie — He only votes AGAINST the Republican Party, making life very easy for the Radical Left.”
Trump’s post included strong criticisms of Massie, referring to him as the “Worst ‘Republican’ Congressman we have had in many years” and a “Third Rate Congressman.” He described Massie as a “Weak and Pathetic RINO,” a “lightweight,” a “true hater of Israel,” and a “totally ineffective LOSER who has failed us so badly.”
Trump claimed that the people of Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District “want desperately to get rid of Thomas Massie” and that he had won the state “BIG, ALL THREE TIMES.” He contrasted Massie with Gallrein, saying, “Unlike ‘lightweight’ Congressman Massie… CAPTAIN ED GALLREIN IS A WINNER WHO WILL NOT LET KENTUCKY DOWN!”
Massie’s Response
Following Trump’s post, Rep. Thomas Massie responded on X, stating, “It happened again today! Why do I get attacked weekly? Because I’m the only Republican who refuses to rubber stamp foreign aid, endless deficits, and unnecessary wars. I’m also exposing sex traffickers. My primary is in May. Please help if you can.”
Massie’s post included a screenshot of Trump’s Truth Social message, highlighting the endorsement and criticisms. He positioned his stances as reasons for the attacks, noting his opposition to certain Republican Party votes.
