Former Trump Administration Official Says President’s Endorsement of Opponent Won’t Alter Campaign for Alabama’s 2nd District
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OZARK, Ala. | Republican congressional candidate David Matthews says he remains fully committed to his campaign for Alabama’s 2nd Congressional District despite President Donald Trump’s endorsement of a rival candidate, framing the development as a moment of gratitude rather than disappointment.
In a personal video message released Tuesday, Matthews responded publicly after President Trump endorsed State Rep. Rhett Marques ahead of the Aug. 11 Republican special primary. Rather than criticizing the endorsement, Matthews reflected on the profound influence Trump’s political rise has had on his personal and professional life, emphasizing that the president “owes me nothing.”
“President Trump owes me nothing,” Matthews said. “He does not owe me an endorsement. He does not owe me a favor. I owe him gratitude. His decision to run for president changed my life, changed my family’s life, and gave me opportunities to serve this country that I never could have imagined.”
The response marks a notable departure from the criticism that often follows high-profile political endorsements in competitive races. Instead, Matthews positioned himself as a loyal supporter of Trump while reaffirming his determination to continue pursuing the congressional seat.
