"Rep. Bost Secures Nomination for 6th Term Despite Strong Primary Challenge"

Rep. Matt Gaetz's attempt to unseat Rep. Mike Bost in the Illinois primary election, by endorsing challenger Darren Bailey, fell short as Bost secured a narrow victory with Trump's endorsement and a financial advantage. Despite Gaetz's efforts to label Bost as a RINO, or "Republican In Name Only," voters supported the incumbent, dealing a blow to Gaetz's project of promoting America First-style populists within the House GOP. This proxy battle reflects tensions between Gaetz and House Republican leadership, with Bost's win signaling that Gaetz's endorsed candidates may not be fully safe.