GOP Rep. Thomas Massie defiant as Trump seeks to oust him in primary: "I'm going to win"

Updated on: May 18, 2026 / 9:56 PM EDT / CBS News

GOP Rep. Thomas Massie defiant as Trump seeks to oust him in primary: "I'm going to win"

TL;DR

  • Rep. Thomas Massie faces a primary challenge from Ed Gallrein, endorsed by President Trump.
  • Massie expresses confidence in winning, citing internal polling that suggests a close race.
  • Massie criticizes the involvement of pro-Israel interest groups, including AIPAC and the Republican Jewish Coalition, suggesting their spending is influencing the election.
  • Massie has opposed several of Trump's legislative priorities, including the war with Iran, and has defied the president on issues like the release of the Epstein files.
  • Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth campaigned for Gallrein, accusing Massie of "constant obstruction."
  • Massie defends his stance on foreign aid, stating he opposes it for all countries, including Israel, due to domestic debt.
  • He argues against equating anti-Zionism or criticism of Benjamin Netanyahu's government with antisemitism.