Former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein has announced his candidacy for Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District in a challenge to incumbent Congressman Thomas Massie.
In what is shaping up to be a high-profile race, Gallrein looks to unseat Massie, who has held the seat since 2012. Gallrein’s campaign published a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing his support for President Donald Trump.
“I’ve dedicated my life to serving my country, and I’m ready to answer the call again,” Gallrein said. “This district is Trump Country. The President doesn’t need obstacles in Congress – he needs backup. I’ll defeat Thomas Massie, stand shoulder to shoulder with President Trump, and deliver the America First results Kentuckians voted for.”
Gallrein, who hails from the Louisville area, recently gained the backing of Trump, who posted a lengthy endorsement of the candidate on Truth Social last Friday before Gallrein officially entered the race.
“In Congress, he will fight tirelessly to Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment…CAPTAIN ED GALLREIN IS A WINNER WHO WILL NOT LET YOU DOWN. Should he decide to challenge Massie, Captain Ed Gallrein has my Complete and Total Endorsement,” wrote the president.
Gallrein’s only prior electoral experience was an unsuccessful primary bid for the District 7 seat in the Kentucky State Senate, where he narrowly lost to now-Sen. Aaron Reed, who was also vetted by Trump’s team as a potential challenger to Massie.
The primary is shaping up to be a proxy war between Trump and Massie. Trump has publicly clashed with Massie over his voting record, as the congressman has split with the president on several of his legislative initiatives.
Most recently, Massie was one of two Republican House members to vote against the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Massie has also publicly called for releasing the highly publicized Epstein Files.
Primary elections are scheduled for May 19, 2026.