Since returning to office earlier in January, President Donald Trump has frequently clashed with Kentucky Republican Rep. Thomas Massie.

Yet in a development which may rock next year's election, Trump has found someone to launch a primary challenge. 

Former Navy SEAL pledges to give Trump "backup" in Washington

According to Breitbart, farmer and former Navy SEAL Ed Gallrein officially announced his campaign for the GOP's nomination in Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District.

"I’ve dedicated my life to serving my country, and I’m ready to answer the call again. This district is Trump Country," Gallrein," was quoted as saying in a statement.

"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," he added.

Breitbart noted how Gallrein's announcement came less than a week after Trump gave his endorsement in a post on Truth Social.

Trump: Gallrein is "a true America First Patriot"

"Third Rate Congressman Thomas Massie, a Weak and Pathetic RINO from the Great Commonwealth of Kentucky, a place I love, and won big SIX TIMES, must be thrown out of office, ASAP!" Trump wrote.

"The incredible people of Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District gave us a mandate to, MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN, and the person that will help us do that is Navy SEAL, Army Ranger, and Fifth Generation Kentucky Farmer, Captain Ed Gallrein, a true America First Patriot," the president added.

Trump insisted that Gallrein "will fight tirelessly to Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment."

Gallrein expressed gratitude for the endorsement in a statement provided to Breitbart, saying, "I'm honored by President Trump’s support."

“He is doing an amazing job securing the border, lowering taxes, and making America great again. I will make an announcement on what’s next soon!" he added.

Massie asks for donations via social media

Breitbart noted how for his part, Massie responded to the president's endorsement of Gallrein by calling for donations on social media.

‼️ Trump just endorsed someone to run against me. I can beat this candidate if I have your support. We just posted our best fundraising quarter ever. Can you help me top it?https://t.co/nsEYqxVllXhttps://t.co/AgJY01JuFj

— Thomas Massie for Congress (@MassieforKY) October 18, 2025

"Trump just endorsed someone to run against me," the congressman wrote. "I can beat this candidate if I have your support. We just posted our best fundraising quarter ever. Can you help me top it?"