Ed Gallrein

Former Navy SEAL and Army Ranger Ed Gallrein, a Republican, is facing Democrat Melissa Strange in the general election this November after defeating incumbent Congressman Thomas Massie in the GOP primary.

Gallrein launched his campaign last October, positioning himself as a close ally of President Donald Trump, a contrast to Massie, who publicly clashed with Trump on various issues.

Upon entering the race, Trump officially endorsed Gallrein. During his visit to Hebron in early March, Trump later invited Gallrein onstage at his rally.

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Prior to the May primary, Gallrein’s only previous electoral experience was an unsuccessful primary run for the District 7 seat in the Kentucky State Senate, where he narrowly lost to now-Sen. Aaron Reed.

Politically, Gallrein reads as a traditional MAGA conservative, sharing many of the same policy goals as Trump. On his campaign website, Gallrein describes his platform as “America First” by emphasizing tax cuts, reduced federal regulations and curbing government spending as a hedge against inflation.

Regarding immigration policy, Gallrein advocates increased border enforcement by completing construction of the southern border wall and expanding funding for Border Patrol and Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

Professionally, Gallrein served for 30 years in the military, deploying across the globe from Central America to the Middle East. Throughout his tenure, Gallrein received four Bronze Stars, including the Combat Parachute Badge, along with two Presidential Unit Citations. Later on, Gallrein worked as an executive coach and public speaker.

Gallrein, who is originally from Simpson County, currently lives on a large farm in Shelbyville outside of Louisville.