A former Navy SEAL and fifth-generation Kentucky farmer has launched a bid to unseat Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) in the upcoming GOP primary, backed by former President Donald Trump. Ed Gallrein, who served three decades in military service, including deployments to Panama, Afghanistan, and Iraq, announced his campaign with a focus on aligning with Trump’s political agenda.

Gallrein highlighted his military credentials, stating he rose to the rank of captain and earned multiple awards for his service. He emphasized his deep roots in Kentucky, where his family has farmed for over a century, operating one of the state’s largest grain operations. Gallrein framed his candidacy as a mission to “deliver America First results” and support Trump’s legislative priorities.

Massie, a seven-term congressman, dismissed Gallrein as a “failed candidate and establishment hack,” citing his previous unsuccessful run for the state Senate. Massie accused Trump’s team of desperation, claiming Gallrein had been seeking the endorsement for months. Meanwhile, Trump publicly endorsed Gallrein, criticizing Massie as a “weak and pathetic RINO” who opposes GOP priorities. The president praised Gallrein’s military background and business experience, vowing to back his campaign.

The primary battle intensifies as Massie faces pressure over his voting record, including opposition to a major GOP legislative effort. Trump’s political allies have invested $1.8 million in independent expenditures to unseat Massie, while the congressman prepares to push for a vote on releasing documents related to Jeffrey Epstein.