Elon Musk Withholds Support as Thomas Massie Faces Tough GOP Primary Challenge

Rep. Thomas Massie has stopped expecting financial support from Elon Musk, despite the billionaire’s public vow of backing last year. With the primary election just three weeks away, Musk has yet to provide any assistance to Massie in his race against Navy SEAL veteran Ed Gallrein—who was recruited by former President Donald Trump.

"I think [Musk] found out it's easier to land rockets backwards and to get cars to drive themselves than it is to fix this place," Massie told Axios at the Capitol last week. He added that he does not expect Musk’s help at this stage.

Massie is the first Republican incumbent targeted for defeat by Trump’s political organization this election cycle. The intensity of Trump’s opposition to Massie makes the primary outcome a critical test of the former president’s influence over Republican voters.

Current Polling Shows Tight Race

A Quantus Insights survey of likely registered voters conducted in early April revealed a highly competitive margin for Massie, who has historically won reelection with ease. The poll found:

• 46.8% support for Massie
• 37.7% support for Gallrein
• 14% remain undecided

This marks a significant shift from Massie’s past reelection performances, signaling a much closer race than usual.

Donor Concerns and Business Risks

"It's hard for donors in business to get involved in politics if they're not completely just in the tank for Trump without putting their businesses in jeopardy," Massie said. "I don't know if that's the case with Elon, but I've seen that with other donors."

Massie declined to name the donors he referenced but emphasized that he holds no personal animosity toward Musk.

Musk’s Political Contributions Elsewhere

While Musk has not backed Massie, he has made substantial contributions to Republican super PACs supporting House and Senate races. Axios previously reported that Musk donated heavily to pro-House and Senate GOP super PACs in late 2025.

Additionally, Musk contributed a $10 million donation to support Nate Morris, a pro-Trump candidate running to replace Sen. Mitch McConnell in Kentucky.