Sen. Mitch McConnell's (R-KY) retirement, announced on Thursday, could open up a path for Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY), among the most consistent opponents of legislation to support Israel and combat antisemitism in the House, to make a bid for the U.S. Senate in the 2026 midterms. The prospect is already generating fierce opposition from the local and national Jewish community.

While Massie has not yet announced his plans, and his office did not respond to a request for comment, he's been seen in recent years as a contender for McConnell's seat when the 83-year-old senator retired. Massie publicly floated the prospect of running for Senate on Thursday afternoon, posting a poll on X asking followers whether he should remain in the House, run for Senate or run for governor.

The Republican Jewish Coalition quickly pledged that it would mount an aggressive push against Massie if he runs.

"If Tom Massie chooses to enter the race for US Senate in Kentucky, the RJC campaign budget to ensure he is defeated will be unlimited," Republican Jewish Coalition CEO Matt Brooks, who has repeatedly condemned Massie, said in a statement to Jewish Insider.