Trump’s Latest Feud: Taking on a GOP Rebel Over War Powers
Well, here we go again. Donald Trump just declared open season on one of his own party members—Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie. And this time? It’s all about who gets to decide when America goes to war. Buckle up, because this one’s messy even by Trump standards.
Why Trump’s Absolutely Fuming
“A total loser who hates America!” That’s how Trump described Massie on Truth Social after the congressman had the nerve to challenge presidential war powers. Classic Trump, right? But here’s the thing—he’s dead serious about crushing Massie’s re-election bid. He’s even threatening to handpick and bankroll a primary opponent. Considering Trump’s cult-like grip on Kentucky Republicans (82% approval, apparently), that’s not an empty threat.
Let me put it this way: Remember how Trump went after Justin Amash? This feels like that, but with 2024 election stakes cranked up to eleven.
Meet the Guy Willing to Stand Up to Trump
Massie’s the kind of politician who drives both parties crazy—they don’t call him “Mr. No” for nothing. The man once live-tweeted his own appendectomy, for crying out loud. Now he’s teaming up with a few other GOP rebels to say, “Hey, maybe Congress should actually vote before we bomb Iran’s nuclear sites?”
His exact words to The American Conservative: “The Constitution gives war powers to Congress, not the Oval Office.” Simple. Direct. And guaranteed to piss off Trump. What’s fascinating is how this pits the libertarian wing of the GOP against Trump’s version of “America First”—which somehow still involves lots of military action overseas.
The Political Fallout (Because There’s Always Fallout)
Trump’s people are already shopping around for someone to run against Massie. Kentucky state Sen. Adrienne Southworth’s name keeps popping up. But here’s the kicker—Massie’s district went for Trump by 29 points in 2020, yet the guy keeps winning elections. He’s got over a million bucks in campaign funds and this weird, stubborn charm that resonates with voters.
And honestly? This fight exposes the GOP’s deeper identity crisis. On one hand, you’ve got Republicans who still believe in the whole “checks and balances” thing. On the other, Trump’s making it clear that dissent—even on constitutional principles—won’t be tolerated. Remember his Syria withdrawal fight with Rand Paul? This is that, but with way higher stakes.
How Everyone’s Reacting
The media’s having a field day. Breitbart calls Massie “defiant” (like that’s a bad thing?), while POLITICO can’t get over the irony of Trump attacking a Republican for—wait for it—limiting executive power. Back in Kentucky, local GOP officials can’t even agree. One county chair called Massie “principled.” Another dismissed him as “completely out of touch.” Typical party unity, right?
Social media’s even messier. #PrimaryMassie trended briefly (no surprise—Trump’s online army mobilized fast). But over on Reddit’s libertarian forums? They’re treating Massie like some kind of constitutional hero. The best moment? A C-SPAN clip where Massie shrugs off Trump’s threats with, “I’ve survived worse from better politicians.” Savage.
What Happens Next?
Here’s the reality check: Kentucky’s primary filing deadline isn’t until May 2024. Massie’s team points to his 60% primary win last cycle as proof he’s got local support. But if Trump starts holding rallies in the district? All bets are off. This could become the ultimate loyalty test for GOP candidates nationwide.
As for Trump? This is part of his bigger play to remake the Republican Party in his image. We saw how that worked out for Liz Cheney. One Trump adviser told Axios the quiet part out loud: “This is about ensuring no Republican dares cross him post-2024.” Chilling stuff.
The Bottom Line
What started as a debate over war powers has turned into a full-blown power struggle. For Massie, it’s about political survival. For Trump? Just another chance to prove he owns the GOP base. And for the rest of us? Kentucky’s 4th District just became the most interesting political battleground you weren’t watching.
This story’s far from over—we’ll keep you posted as the drama unfolds.
Source: NY Post – US News