Trump targets Thomas Massie in costly Kentucky GOP primary

President Donald Trump faces a major political test Tuesday as he continues efforts to unseat Republicans who have publicly broken with him.

(NBC)- President Donald Trump faces a major political test Tuesday as he continues efforts to unseat Republicans who have publicly broken with him.

One of the president’s biggest targets is Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie, who is facing what has become the most expensive House primary race in U.S. history.

“It’s great to be here,” Massie told supporters on the campaign trail.

In recent days, Trump has flooded social media with attacks against the Kentucky Republican, including a video criticizing Massie.

“Massie is the worst congressman in the history of our country,” Trump said in the video. “Always voting against Republicans and good values.”

Massie argues he still supports most Republican priorities.

“The problem is that 10% of the time they’re voting against you,” Massie said, referring to disagreements with party leadership.

Massie has repeatedly clashed with the White House over major issues including government spending, the war with Iran and efforts to release Epstein-related files.

His opponent, farmer and former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein, has aligned himself closely with Trump.

“The stakes are just going to get higher,” Gallrein said. “He will continue to betray us.”

Massie says voters must decide whether they want independent representation in Congress.

“The main thing they’ve got to decide is do they want a rubber stamp,” Massie said.

Trump has already shown significant influence in Republican primaries this election cycle.

Over the weekend, Louisiana Senator Bill Cassidy lost his primary after previously voting to convict Trump following the January 6 Capitol riot.

“There’s no room in this party to destroy his agenda,” Senator Lindsey Graham said while backing Trump’s efforts.