Trump says GOP Rep. Thomas Massie ‘SHOULD BE PRIMARIED’ for opposing measure to avert government shutdown 

A Growing Rift in the Republican Party: Trump Calls for Primary Challenge Against Rep. Thomas Massie

In a dramatic escalation of tensions within the Republican Party, former President Donald Trump called for a primary challenge against Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) on Monday. The clash arose over Massie’s opposition to a continuing resolution (CR) aimed at preventing a government shutdown. Trump, who has been known for his no-holds-barred approach to politics, took to his Truth Social platform to criticize Massie, accusing him of being an obstructionist and urging Kentucky Republicans to replace him in the 2024 primary. The feud highlights the deepening divisions within the GOP, as conservatives clash over how to handle government spending, shutdowns, and the broader direction of the party.

Rep. Thomas Massie’s Stance on the Continuing Resolution

At the heart of the conflict is Massie’s opposition to the proposed continuing resolution, which would fund the government through the end of September. The bill, which has gained the support of the influential House Freedom Caucus, would increase defense spending while reducing non-defense spending below 2024 levels. While many conservatives, including Trump, have rallied behind the measure as a way to avoid a government shutdown and counter Democratic spending priorities, Massie has emerged as a vocal critic. He has argued that the bill does not go far enough in addressing government waste and runaway spending, a position that has put him at odds with his party’s leadership and even its most prominent figures.

Massie, a six-term congressman known for his libertarian leanings and strict conservative voting record, has been a thorn in the side of both Democrats and Republicans alike. On Sunday, he took to X (formerly Twitter) to reaffirm his opposition to the CR, stating, “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.” He also criticized the bill for perpetuating “waste, fraud, and abuse,” suggesting that Republicans are failing to take meaningful action on fiscal conservatism.

President Trump’s Blistering Attack on Massie

Trump wasted no time in responding to Massie’s defiance. In a series of fiery posts on Truth Social, the former president accused Massie of being a “GRANDSTANDER” who is “too much trouble, and not worth the fight.” He compared Massie to former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), who lost her seat after breaking with Trump and the Republican Party following the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol. Trump’s criticism was scathing, calling Massie an “automatic ‘NO’ vote on just about everything” despite his past support for continuing resolutions. The former president even went so far as to declare, “HE SHOULD BE PRIMARIED, and I will lead the charge against him.”

The personal nature of Trump’s attack was notable, as it reflected his well-documented tendency to target critics within his own party with the same ferocity he directs at Democrats. By invoking Cheney’s political downfall, Trump seemed to suggest that Massie could face a similar fate if he continues to defy the party establishment. Trump’s call for a primary challenge has already sparked speculation about whether his endorsement could rally enough support to unseat the Kentucky congressman.

The Potential Fallout for Massie and the GOP

While Trump’s intervention has thrown a spotlight on Massie’s stance, it remains unclear whether the former president’s efforts will succeed in unseating the congressman. Massie, who has built a reputation as a principled conservative, has already signaled that he is undaunted by the threat of a primary challenge. In a post on X, he dismissed the idea that he could be swayed by political threats, writing, “Someone thinks they can control my voting card by threatening my re-election. Guess what? Doesn’t work on me.” He also pointed to his past success in fending off primary challengers, noting that none of his previous opponents managed to secure even 25% of the vote.

The stakes are high for both Massie and Trump. If Massie’s opposition to the CR helps derail the bill, it could lead to a government shutdown, which would have significant political and practical consequences. On the other hand, if Trump’s push to primary Massie succeeds, it could further solidify the former president’s influence over the Republican Party. However, if the effort fails, it could weaken Trump’s reputation as a kingmaker within the GOP.

The Broader Implications of the Feud

The clash between Trump and Massie underscores the ongoing struggle for control of the Republican Party. As the 2024 election approaches, conservatives are grappling with how to balance their fiscal priorities with the practical realities of governing. The CR debate has become a lightning rod for these tensions, with some Republicans arguing that the bill represents a necessary compromise to avoid a shutdown, while others insist that it does not go far enough in reducing spending.

The feud also highlights the challenges of unity within the Republican caucus. With only a slim majority in the House, GOP leaders can ill afford to lose votes on critical legislation. If more than two Republicans defect, the CR could fail, raising the specter of a government shutdown. Reps. Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.) and Cory Mills (R-Fla.) have expressed reservations about the bill, but Massie has been the most vocal opponent, drawing the ire of Trump and other party leaders.

Conclusion: A Test of Loyalty and Conviction

The confrontation between Trump and Massie serves as a microcosm of the larger debates within the Republican Party. At its core, the feud is a test of loyalty—to the party, to its leaders, and to the principles that define its platform. Trump’s call for a primary challenge reflects his belief that loyalty to him and his agenda should take precedence over individual convictions. Massie, on the other hand, has staked his political career on his commitment to fiscal conservatism, even if it means defying the party’s most powerful figures.

As the drama unfolds, the outcome remains uncertain. Will Trump’s efforts to unseat Massie succeed, or will the Kentucky congressman emerge even more entrenched in his positions? How will this feud impact the broader Republican strategy leading into 2024? For now, one thing is clear: the battle between Trump and Massie is not just about a continuing resolution—it’s about the soul of the Republican Party.