Trump touts Iran ‘excursion,’ hits GOP’s Massie in first rally since launching strikes

The Hill
by Julia Manchester
March 11, 2026
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2 min read

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President Trump held a rally, discussing Iran strikes and criticizing Rep. Thomas Massie.

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Trump held his first campaign rally since U.S. strikes against Tehran, where he criticized Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) while speaking in Massie's own district. Trump described the Iran military action as an "excursion" and said "we had to take a little trip to get rid of some," though the quote cuts off mid-sentence.

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Iran & Middle East Conflict

Tracking the evolving military and diplomatic situation across the Middle East, including US-Iran tensions, Israeli operations, proxy conflicts, and the broader geopolitical implications for the region.

Trump's Push for SAVE America Act and Criticism of GOP Opponents

Former President Trump is pushing hard for the SAVE America Act, threatening to block legislation until it passes. He is also actively campaigning against Republican opponents, notably Rep. Thomas Massie, whom he has publicly criticized and sought to oust.

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Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and Endorsements

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, making endorsements, criticizing opponents, and pushing for specific legislation. His actions are shaping primary races and legislative priorities, often leading to internal party conflicts.

Trump's Influence on Republican Party and Policy

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing for specific legislative agendas. His actions are shaping primary races, trade policy, and legislative priorities within Congress.

Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Legislative Agenda

Former President Trump is actively shaping the Republican legislative agenda and primary races, notably endorsing candidates and campaigning against those who oppose him, such as Rep. Thomas Massie, while pushing for the 'SAVE America Act'.

Trump's Campaign Against Rep. Thomas Massie

President Trump has intensified his campaign to oust Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, publicly criticizing him and urging voters to replace him. This has led to significant spending by outside conservative groups to support Massie's opponent in the upcoming primary.

Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Policy

Former President Trump is actively shaping Republican primaries, particularly in Kentucky, by endorsing candidates and campaigning against incumbents. He is also exerting pressure on Congress regarding legislation and trade policy, threatening legislative blockades.

Trump's Influence on Republican Party and 2024 Election

Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican Party, endorsing candidates, criticizing opponents, and pushing legislative agendas. His actions are shaping primary races and national policy debates, particularly concerning election integrity and trade.

Trump's Anti-Massie Crusade in Kentucky

Former President Trump has escalated his public criticism of Kentucky Rep. Thomas Massie, urging voters to oust him in the upcoming primary. This 'anti-Massie crusade' has led to significant spending by conservative groups attempting to defeat the incumbent.

Trump's Political Influence and Endorsements

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence within the Republican party, endorsing candidates and criticizing opponents. His actions are shaping primary races and legislative debates, particularly concerning the 'SAVE America Act'.

Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and Endorsements

Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, making endorsements, criticizing opponents, and pushing his legislative agenda. His actions are shaping primary races and creating tensions within the party, particularly regarding the 'SAVE America Act' and his criticism of certain GOP members.

Trump's Influence on Republican Primaries and Internal Party Dynamics

Former President Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party, actively endorsing candidates and campaigning against those he deems disloyal. His efforts include publicly criticizing and seeking to oust Rep. Thomas Massie in Kentucky and pressuring the Senate on legislative priorities like the SAVE Act.

Trump's Influence and Political Maneuvering

Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over the Republican party and national politics, engaging in endorsements, criticisms, and policy demands. His actions include targeting political opponents, pushing for specific legislation like the SAVE Act, and facing accusations of 'racist hate speech' from a UN panel.

Trump's Influence on Republican Politics and the SAVE Act

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Trump's Political Influence and Endorsements

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