Why the Kentucky Republican primary was the most expensive ever

The Kentucky Republican primary was the most expensive in US political history, with around $32 million spent, much of it backed by pro-Israel lobbying organisations.Congressman Thomas Massie was defeated by Trump ally Ed Gallrein as the race evolved beyond a local political contest into a broader struggle over the direction and identity of the Republican Party.Massie 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 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 centred on personal loyalty? And to what extent do pro-Israel lobbying groups influence American politics?Joining Enda Brady for this discussion:Greg SwensonCo-Founder of The Hamilton SocietyRina ShahRepublican StrategistHenry OlsenHost of Beyond the Polls podcastErol MorkocSpokesperson for Republicans OverseasTo access the back catalogue of Roundtable discussions https://www.youtube.com/@RoundtableTRTWorld Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.