Trump endorses challenger to Freedom Caucus chair Bob Good ahead of closely watched Virginia primary

WASHINGTON (AP) — Former President Donald Trump has endorsed the Republican opponent of a Virginia congressman who leads the hard-right House Freedom Caucus in what could be a defining moment in the GOP primary set for June 18.

The endorsement of John McGuire, a state senator, provides a jolt of momentum for the challenger and could be difficult for the incumbent, two-term Rep. Bob Good, to overcome. The primary is one of the most closely watched in the nation as millions of dollars pour into the race from various Republican-aligned groups.

Trump said that McGuire, 55, “has my Complete and Total Endorsement! MAGA2024.” Meanwhile, he calls Good bad for Virginia and bad for the USA. In the endorsement, posted on Truth Social, Trump said Good was constantly attacking and fighting him until recently when he gave a “warm and ‘loving’ Endorsement — But really, it was too late. The damage has been done.”

The two candidates have sought to show their allegiance to Trump in the solidly Republican district, but Good, 58, initially backed Ron DeSantis in the GOP presidential primary, before endorsing Trump. The former president did not forget and took revenge three weeks before primary day, saying of Good, “he turned his back on our incredible movement.”

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