WASHINGTON – A long-standing Republican critic of former President Donald Trump has found himself at the center of another political showdown, this time drawing sharp criticism from one of Trump’s top aides.
Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), a vocal fiscal conservative, has repeatedly opposed Trump’s policies and endorsements, including backing Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the 2024 presidential race. His latest clash stems from his rejection of a government funding measure that Trump has encouraged Republicans to support.
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Despite Trump’s endorsement of Massie in 2022, tensions between the two have escalated. On Sunday, Massie announced his opposition to the Continuing Resolution budget, referring to it as a “cut-copy-paste omnibus.”
“I’m not voting for the Continuing Resolution budget (cut-copy-paste omnibus) this week,” Massie declared on X. “Why would I vote to continue the waste, fraud, and abuse DOGE has found? We were told the CR in December would get us to March when we would fight. Here we are in March, punting again! WTFO.”
His stance prompted a stern response from Chris LaCivita, Trump’s co-campaign manager and senior advisor. “Tick tock Tommie,” LaCivita wrote Monday morning on X, sharing Massie’s post, seemingly hinting at political repercussions for the Kentucky congressman.
The Republican majority in the House remains razor-thin, holding just 218 seats to the Democrats’ 214, meaning any dissent within the party could significantly impact legislative outcomes. Massie, however, remained defiant in the face of LaCivita’s warning.
“Someone thinks they can control my voting card by threatening my re-election. Guess what? Doesn’t work on me. Three times I’ve had a challenger who tried to be more MAGA than me. None busted 25% because my constituents prefer transparency and principles over blind allegiance,” Massie fired back Monday afternoon.
LaCivita, known for his aggressive political tactics, was quick to respond. “Never faced me … Stand by,” he replied, indicating that the conflict was far from over.
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A seasoned Republican strategist with decades of campaign experience, LaCivita gained notoriety for his role in the controversial “Swift Boat Veterans for Truth” campaign against John Kerry in the 2004 presidential election.
His latest engagement in intra-party disputes underscores the ongoing struggle within the GOP as Trump seeks to maintain his grip on the party while dissenters like Massie push back.
The showdown between Massie and Trump’s inner circle highlights the broader ideological battle within the Republican Party as it navigates an election year filled with internal fractures and external challenges.
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