U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth was in Kentucky Monday to speak at a campaign event for Ed Gallrein, the Trump-endorsed Republican challenging Rep. Thomas Massie in the primary election Tuesday.
During his speech, Hegseth recalled the conversation he had with Trump when the former Fox anchor was offered the job of defense secretary.
“You’re gonna have to be tough as [bleep],” said Hegseth, attempting to impersonate the president’s distinct voice.
Warning: Salty language.
Hegseth does his best Trump impression: “He said ‘Pete, you’re gonna have to be tough as shit.'” ? pic.twitter.com/PN9dL5EQN3
— TheBlaze (@theblaze) May 18, 2026
Massie has angered Trump for rejecting some of the president’s favored legislation and teaming up with Democrats over what Trump calls the “Epstein hoax.” The primary race between the two Republicans is the most expensive in U.S. history, with millions in PAC money flowing into the state to defeat the incumbent.
Commenters on X asserted that Hegseth’s appearance at the campaign event violates the federal Hatch Act.
🚨 President Trump Just Targeted Rep. Thomas Massie in a Truth Social Message:
“I’m in the Oval Office… we’re in a fight against… the worst congressman… His name is Thomas Massie. He’s from Kentucky…
I hope you’re gonna put him out of business tomorrow… He is so bad…… pic.twitter.com/mwSdjWCkzb
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) May 18, 2026
