Special Poll
President Trump criticized Rep. Thomas Massie during a visit to Capitol Hill on Tuesday, accusing the Kentucky Republican of being more interested in attention than governing. Speaking to reporters after addressing House Republicans, Trump dismissed Massie’s fiscal objections to his legislative agenda, saying, “I don’t think Thomas Massie understands government. I think he’s a grandstander, frankly.” He added, “We don’t even talk to him much. I think he should be voted out of office.”
Trump continued by saying that Massie often avoids substantive discussion. “If you ask him a couple of questions, he never gives you an answer. He just says, ‘I’m a no.’ He thinks he’s going to get publicity.”
Massie, for his part, told reporters after the conference meeting that he remained opposed to the current form of Trump’s legislative package, indicating the president’s visit did not change his stance.
Trump’s appearance on Capitol Hill was part of a broader push to persuade Republicans to support his legislative priorities, which he refers to as the “big, beautiful bill.” The package includes tax cuts, spending reforms, and increased border security funding.
Despite Trump’s efforts, divisions within the GOP remain. Fiscal conservatives like Massie are concerned about adding to the national debt, while centrist Republicans from high-tax states are pushing for a higher cap on the state and local tax (SALT) deduction. These disagreements continue to present obstacles to advancing the bill through the House.