Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) faces allegations from his ex-girlfriend, Cynthia West, who claims he arranged a job for her in Rep. Victoria Spartz’s (R-Ind.) office and later offered $5,000 to drop a wrongful termination lawsuit. West, a Florida school board candidate, said she never applied for the role and was terminated after ending her relationship with Massie. Spartz’s office denied the settlement offer and disputed West’s claims, stating her employment was not extended due to "concerning conduct."
Key Developments
- West alleges Massie secured her a temporary position in Spartz’s office in 2024, which ended after their relationship soured.
- She claims Massie offered $5,000 to drop a lawsuit against Spartz’s office, which Spartz denies.
Context and Responses
- West’s Allegations: In a video interview, West detailed her relationship with Massie, including trips to Savannah and South Africa. She said Massie contacted her on social media in August 2024, and their relationship became "very intense." She claims Spartz’s office terminated her after she broke up with Massie.
- Spartz’s Defense: Spartz’s office stated West’s employment was not extended beyond 90 days due to "concerning conduct," not termination. They denied any knowledge of a $5,000 settlement offer and called Massie a "defender of women’s rights." Spartz’s office also denied forcing West into a nondisclosure agreement.
- Political Implications: The allegations emerge as Massie faces a primary challenge from Trump-backed Ed Gallrein in Kentucky’s May 19 primary. West has said she is not affiliated with Gallrein’s campaign or Trump’s political operation.
Background
- Massie has been a vocal critic of Trump, while Spartz is a close ally. The intraparty clash is one of the most watched House races this year.