United States President Donald Trump tightened his control over the Republican Party after outspoken critic Congressman Thomas Massie lost his primary race to Trump-backed former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein in Kentucky.
Massie had drawn Trump’s anger after opposing military action against Iran, criticising parts of the president’s economic agenda, and supporting legislation linked to the release of files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
The Kentucky race became the most expensive congressional primary in US history, with campaign spending crossing $34 million. A large share of outside funding backed Gallrein, while Massie repeatedly criticised the influence of powerful lobbying groups during the campaign.
In his concession speech, Massie warned against blind loyalty to any president and stressed the importance of constitutional checks and balances.
The results reinforced concerns among moderate Republicans and Trump critics that openly challenging the president now carries serious political risks within the party.
In Georgia, the Republican governor’s race moved to a high-profile run-off after no candidate secured a majority. Trump-backed Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones advanced alongside billionaire healthcare executive Rick Jackson.
The state’s Republican Senate primary also heads to a run-off, setting up another closely watched contest ahead of the general election.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro secured the Democratic nomination for re-election and is expected to campaign heavily against Trump’s policies. Republican State Treasurer Stacy Garrity will challenge him in November.
In Alabama, former Senator Tommy Tuberville advanced in the governor’s race and is set to face former Democratic Senator Doug Jones in a major political rematch.
Oregon’s governor race was also finalised, with Republican Christine Drazan set to face Democratic Governor Tina Kotek in a repeat of the 2022 contest.
Meanwhile, Idaho voters selected nominees in several statewide races, including contests for governor, Senate and Congress.
The primary election results across multiple states highlighted Trump’s continuing dominance over Republican politics as candidates aligned with his agenda gained momentum heading into the general elections.
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