Tennessee Governor Bill Lee reaffirmed his support for Donald Trump despite the former president labeling him a "RINO" (Republican in name only) last week.¶
Trump made the comment on social media after the candidate backed by Governor Lee, State Senator John Lundberg, R-Bristol, lost the GOP primary for Senate District 4 to Bobby Harshbarger, the son of U.S. Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. Trump had endorsed Harshbarger in the race.¶
“Congratulations to Bobby Harshbarger, a fantastic candidate for Tennessee State Senate, who won against a long-term incumbent supported by RINO Governor Bill Lee, whose endorsement meant nothing,” Trump wrote.¶
Speaking at a media event on Wednesday, Governor Lee emphasized that he still supports Trump and his 2024 presidential campaign.¶
“We need strong leadership in the White House, and we need President Trump to fill that slot for strong leadership,” Lee said.¶
Trump’s criticism of Lee surprised many, as the governor has been a vocal supporter of the former president. However, earlier this year, Lee chose not to officially endorse Trump during the primary while serving as Chair of the Republican Governors Association. At the time, Lee stated he would support whoever became the eventual GOP nominee, according to Politico.¶
When asked about Trump’s recent remarks, Lee expressed confusion but maintained his support for the former president.¶
“I can’t really explain what that was about. But yeah, it doesn’t change anything about how I feel about what we’re doing or where we’re going, and everybody has their own style. The president has his, and I certainly am hopeful that his style leads to him continuing to lead and be elected, but I can’t really explain what happened there,” Lee said.¶
