Trump-backed candidate defeats seven-term congressman in Kentucky primary

A Republican primary election in Kentucky's fourth congressional district ended with the defeat of the seven-term incumbent by the candidate endorsed by President Trump. The race set new records for spending, with more than $33 million directed into advertising, according to AdImpact. A large share of the funds came from pro-Israel groups.

Campaign spending and tactics Both campaigns ran negative advertisements that accused the other side of being too supportive of progressive positions on immigration, transgender rights, and diversity issues. One advertisement used AI-generated images to depict the incumbent with two Democratic members of Congress.

Another advertisement labeled the Trump-endorsed candidate as "woke" and accused him of abandoning the president on the battlefield.

Reactions from observers A reporter who covers northern Kentucky for the Cincinnati Enquirer said the outcome tests whether members of Congress can vote against the party line at times. An elections expert from the University of Kentucky said the result sends a message to Republicans nationwide.

The incumbent had voted with the Republican Party more than 90 percent of the time and had opposed certain administration priorities, including a spending bill and the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein.