Washington D.C. – In a surprise move, former President Donald Trump announced Thursday that he will be withdrawing his endorsement of Colorado Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, citing her support for fellow Republican Representative Thomas Massie. This sudden change in stance marks yet another instance of the former President distancing himself from certain members of his own party.
In a statement released on his social media platform, Trump voiced his disappointment with Boebert’s unwavering support for Massie, who has come under fire for his alleged connections to the Oath Keepers, a far-right extremist group. “I endorsed Lauren Boebert because she was a true America First champion,” Trump wrote. “However, after watching her stand by Thomas Massie despite the mounting evidence of his ties to extremist ideologies, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw my endorsement.”
The decision is seen as a blow to Boebert’s re-election campaign, as Trump’s endorsement was a crucial factor in securing her initial victory in 2020. Boebert and Trump share a close relationship, with many regarding the Congresswoman as a key ally in the former President’s ‘America First’ agenda.
Trump’s decision to withdraw his endorsement is likely in response to Massie’s continued association with the Oath Keepers and other far-right groups. Massie has been a vocal supporter of the Oath Keepers and has been called to testify before the House Select Committee on the January 6th Attack, an event that occurred while Trump was still in office.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Boebert characterized Trump’s decision as ‘unfathomable,’ claiming that the Congresswoman had done nothing wrong and remained committed to her conservative values. “Congresswoman Boebert will continue to stand by her principles, no matter how many people she offends,” the spokesperson said.
The move marks a significant rift between Trump and the broader Republican Party, with some members speaking out in support of Massie and criticizing Trump’s handling of the situation. When asked for comment, a spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee said that the party would be focusing on Boebert’s record in Congress rather than the Trump endorsement.
As the controversy surrounding Massie continues to unfold, Trump’s decision to distance himself from Boebert serves as a stark reminder of the challenges he faces in his post-presidency as a leading figure within the Republican Party.
