Republican lawmakers are steering clear of the intraparty showdown, with Trump’s team targeting Massie for defeat in next year’s midterm elections.

Thomas Massie says he has the “antibodies” after surviving President Trump’s previous attempt to oust him during his first administration. The Kentucky Republican’s immunity theory is now being put to its biggest test as Trump steps up his attacks and groups aligned with the president gear up to eject Massie in his 2026 GOP primary.

Trump and Massie have been ensnarled in several public back-and-forths throughout the president's second term.