Trump Urges GOP to Challenge Rep. Massie Over Shutdown Vote

President Trump has urged a primary challenge against Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) due to Massie’s opposition to a continuing resolution (CR) to prevent a government shutdown. The CR proposes increased defense spending and reduced non-defense spending below 2024 levels.

Massie, known for his conservative views, has pledged to vote against the Trump-supported CR. He argues that the measure perpetuates “waste, fraud, and abuse” in government spending.

Massie expressed his position on social media: “Unless I get a lobotomy Monday that causes me to forget what I’ve witnessed the past 12 years, I’ll be a NO on the CR this week.”

President Trump criticized Massie for his consistent opposition to CRs despite previous support for similar measures. Trump labeled Massie as an “automatic ‘NO’ vote on just about everything” and called for a primary challenge against him. He compared Massie to former Representative Liz Cheney, who lost her primary after opposing Trump. ​

The CR, backed by the conservative House Freedom Caucus, aims to prevent a government shutdown if approved by both the House and Senate. However, if more than two Republicans vote against the measure, it may not pass.

Representatives Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) and Cory Mills expressed uncertainty about their votes, while Massie remains a firm “NO.”

Despite threats to his re-election, Massie remains defiant. He emphasized his commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency, stating that previous challengers attempting to outflank him on MAGA grounds failed to gain significant support.

Massie asserted that his constituents value “transparency and principles over blind allegiance.” ​