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Massie Files for 2028 Run After Primary Defeat

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Representative Thomas Massie, who lost his Kentucky primary last week to a Trump-backed challenger, filed paperwork Monday for a potential 2028 candidacy while keeping his options open about which office to seek. The libertarian-leaning Republican emerged as Trump's most prominent congressional critic during his second term, opposing key administration initiatives.

Massie, an MIT-educated engineer, lost by 10 points to Ed Gallrein, a farmer and former Navy SEAL backed by the president. He was one of only two House Republicans to vote against Trump's signature legislation and has been vocal about opposing war in Iran. His defeat came despite strong support from anti-war conservatives who chanted "No more wars!" at his concession speech.

The 2028 political landscape now includes uncertainty with Massie's possible run and Senator Rand Paul's potential presidential bid. Massie himself stated, "I won't rule out a run for county commissioner" or any other position, leaving his political future deliberately undefined as he continues to fundraise for potential federal campaigns.