politics
Pro-Israel Groups Spent $9 Million to Defeat Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky Primary
Republican challenger Ed Gallrein defeated seven-term incumbent Thomas Massie in Kentucky’s 4th congressional district primary. Pro-Israel organizations spent more than $9 million in the race that totaled over $32 million.
May 20, 11:39 AM·1m read2 sources
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Republican challenger Ed Gallrein defeated seven-term incumbent Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky’s 4th congressional district primary on Tuesday. 1 percent, according to the Associated Press. More than 104,000 votes were cast in the race.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee and other pro-Israel groups spent more than $9 million to support Gallrein. Total spending in the primary exceeded $32 million. 15 million in independent expenditures. 87 million. U.S. support for Israel and foreign aid.
He opposed strikes on Iran in June 2025 and voted against the spending bill supported by President Donald Trump. In his concession speech, Massie said he had to call Gallrein to concede and joked that it took time to reach him in Tel Aviv. Massie also announced plans to introduce legislation requiring AIPAC to register under the Foreign Agents Registration Act.
Gallrein will face Democratic nominee Melissa Strange in the November general election. Kentucky’s sore-loser laws bar Massie from running as an independent. The race drew national attention because of Massie’s clashes with Trump and the heavy spending by outside groups.
