Uploaded May 2026 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie has been defeated in what became one of the most closely watched Republican primaries in recent memory.
The race evolved beyond a local political contest into a broader struggle over the direction and identity of the Republican Party.
Massie, who lost the Kentucky congressional primary, had openly opposed military action against Iran, repeatedly voted against US aid to Israel, and supported the release of the Epstein files positions that reportedly put him at odds with Donald Trump.
The primary became the most expensive in US political history, with around $32 million spent, much of it backed by pro-Israel lobbying organizations.
The outcome has sparked controversy and renewed debate over the extent of Israeli influence in American politics.
So, is the US president transforming the Republican Party into a political movement centered on personal loyalty? And to what extent do pro-Israel lobbying groups influence American politics?
Joining Enda Brady for this discussion:
Greg Swenson
Co-Founder of The Hamilton Society
Rina Shah
Republican Strategist
Henry Olsen
Host of Beyond the Polls podcast
Erol Morkoc
Spokesperson for Republicans Overseas
Roundtable is a discussion programme with an edge. Broadcast out of London and presented by Enda Brady, it's about bringing people to the table, listening to every opinion, and analysing every point of view. From fierce debate to reflective thinking, Roundtable discussions offer a different perspective on the issues that matter to you. Watch it every weekday at 15:00 GMT on TRT World.
Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie has been defeated in what became one of the most closely watched Republican primaries in recent memory.
The race evolved beyond a local political contest into a broader struggle over the direction and identity of the Republican Party.
Massie, who lost the Kentucky congressional primary, had openly opposed military action against Iran, repeatedly voted against US aid to Israel, and supported the release of the Epstein files positions that reportedly put him at odds with Donald Trump.
The primary became the most expensive in US political history, with around $32 million spent, much of it backed by pro-Israel lobbying organizations.
The outcome has sparked controversy and renewed debate over the extent of Israeli influence in American politics.
So, is the US president transforming the Republican Party into a political movement centered on personal loyalty? And to what extent do pro-Israel lobbying groups influence American politics?
Joining Enda Brady for this discussion:
Greg Swenson
Co-Founder of The Hamilton Society
Rina Shah
Republican Strategist
Henry Olsen
Host of Beyond the Polls podcast
Erol Morkoc
Spokesperson for Republicans Overseas
Roundtable is a discussion programme with an edge. Broadcast out of London and presented by Enda Brady, it's about bringing people to the table, listening to every opinion, and analysing every point of view. From fierce debate to reflective thinking, Roundtable discussions offer a different perspective on the issues that matter to you. Watch it every weekday at 15:00 GMT on TRT World.
