Kyle Rittenhouse, the figure who gained national attention after being acquitted in the 2020 Kenosha shootings, is experiencing significant backlash from parts of the MAGA movement following his public endorsement of U.S.Representative Thomas Massie ahead of Kentucky's May 19 Republican primary.

At a 'day at the range' event on May 16, Rittenhouse praised Massie for his conservative voting record and defended him against criticisms, highlighting Massie's involvement in the Epstein Files Transparency Act — legislation opposed by former President Donald Trump.

The endorsement has put Rittenhouse at odds with Trump, who supported a challenger to Massie after the congressman opposed Trump's 'One Big Beautiful Bill.' Social media reactions from pro-Trump influencers were swift and harsh, criticizing Rittenhouse for supporting Massie.Some commentators pointed to past praise for Rittenhouse, highlighting the contrast with current criticism.

Former Trump attorney Jenna Ellis defended Rittenhouse, calling the criticism 'predictably gross' and accusing MAGA figures of behaving like 'leftist wolves' under a populist guise.

The situation underscores divisions within the MAGA movement and highlights how endorsements and political alliances continue to influence reputations among high-profile conservative figures.