“Bad Choice by Trump” Angers Supporters Over Missouri Endorsement
(Brendan SMIALOWSKI)
Late Tuesday evening, former President Donald Trump stirred controversy among his own supporters on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump posted a message celebrating the victory of Mike Kehoe, Missouri’s Lieutenant Governor, in the Republican gubernatorial primary. The New York Times reported that Kehoe “is likely to become Missouri’s next governor.”
Trump shared an image with the text, “Mike Kehoe wins! Endorsed by President Trump,” intending to highlight the success of his endorsed candidate. However, this endorsement did not sit well with many of his followers, who had hoped for a different outcome in the primary.
One of the vocal dissenters, Mark Hammer (@Hammertime022), labeled it a “bad choice” by Trump. He expressed concern for Missouri’s future, stating, “Not going to be good for us Missourians.”
Another pro-MAGA account, @midwestgigi, simply wrote, “Booooo!” in response to the endorsement, expressing clear disapproval. This sentiment was echoed by @CompleteSentences, who insisted, “It should’ve been Bill Eigel,” and lamented that “Missouri really dropped the ball tonight.”
The criticism continued with @kprater, who described himself as a “God-fearing, Conservative Christian.” He declared, “Mike Kehoe is a RINO that true Missourians did NOT want! Do your research or keep your mouth shut!” This statement underscored the frustration among Trump’s base about Kehoe’s political alignment.
Adding to the chorus of disapproval, @VeteranCosmicRocker commented, “I hope Kehoe renounces his ties to Bill Gates and George Soros,” reflecting suspicions about Kehoe’s affiliations. Another user, @sueweaver, remarked, “Rats. We wanted the MAGA Governor, not this RINO,” emphasizing the desire for a more staunchly pro-Trump candidate.
One of the most vehement responses came from @debsplace, who expressed profound disappointment in Trump’s endorsement. “Missouri is SO disappointed in you, [Trump],” the user wrote. They went on to detail various accusations against Kehoe, including allegations of corruption and questionable financial ties.
“I pray Bill Eigel will ask for an audit, because why would anyone want a paid-for liar who rides around in a green and blue bus, paid for by a Chinese company, and voted to sell our land 3 times to foreign countries, took money from the Gates family, and wants amnesty for illegals?” the user added. “Apparently, you, since you endorsed him. What has happened to you?”
The backlash from Trump’s base highlights the deep divisions and high stakes within the Republican Party, particularly as they look toward future elections. Trump’s endorsement, once a surefire way to rally support, now faces scrutiny and opposition even from his most ardent followers.
