Rep. Thomas Massie’s supporters held out hope for months that the Kentucky Republican — running in open defiance of Donald Trump — could overcome the president’s relentless campaign against his bid for reelection.
Political reality came crashing down Tuesday night. And Massie’s supporters worry that it’ll discourage any remaining Republican lawmakers from crossing the president, fearful that they’ll end up like the incumbent lawmaker.
“There’s going to be a chilling effect as a result of this race,” said Steve Doan, a state lawmaker in Kentucky and Massie supporter.