WASHINGTON — Former President Donald Trump has endorsed the Republican opponent of a Virginia congressman who chairs a group of House conservatives called the House Freedom Caucus, in what could be a defining moment in the Republican Party’s 18 primary. June.
The support of John McGuire, a state senator, gives the challenger a boost and could be difficult for the incumbent, two-term Rep. Bob Good, to overcome. The primaries are one of the most closely watched in the country as millions of dollars pour into the race from various Republican groups.
Trump said McGuire “has my complete and total approval! MAGA 2024.” Meanwhile, he calls Good bad for Virginia and bad for the US. In the endorsement, posted on Truth Social, Trump said Good had been persistently attacking him until recently when he gave a “warm and ‘loving’ endorsement — but it was actually too late. The damage has been done.”
The two candidates have tried to show their allegiance to Trump in the solidly Republican district, but Good initially endorsed Ron DeSantis in the Republican Party’s presidential primaries before endorsing Trump. The former president did not forget. McGuire has sought to underline his loyalty to Trump during the campaign to mark a contrast between the two candidates, who take similar positions on many political issues.
“Thank you to President Donald J. Trump for endorsing my campaign for Congress!” McGuire said in a statement. “I have been with Trump since he came down the escalator and if I am in Congress, I will support him. agenda and put America first!”
Good was among the parade of Republican lawmakers and allies who appeared in court with Trump in a show of support. Both he and McGuire accompanied Trump the same day.
McGuire said Trump was right about Good and that he cannot be trusted.
“Trump has recognized that I am the 100% MAGA candidate in this race and I appreciate it,” McGuire said.
Good’s campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Good is a fiscal conservative who has pushed for deep cuts. He was one of eight Republican lawmakers who voted with Democrats to oust then-Speaker Kevin McCarthy.
