Thomas Massie is an American politician and engineer serving as the U.S. Representative for Kentucky’s 4th Congressional District since 2012. His district encompasses much of northeastern Kentucky, including areas near Cincinnati and the eastern suburbs of Louisville. Before his tenure in Congress, Massie was the judge-executive of Lewis County, Kentucky, from 2011 to 2012.
Massie earned both a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). During his time at MIT, he invented technology enabling tactile interaction with computers and founded SensAble Technologies, Inc. The company secured over $32 million in venture capital, created 70 jobs, and obtained 29 patents. The hardware and software developed are utilized in designing automobiles, jewelry, shoes, dental prosthetics, and reconstructive implants for wounded soldiers.
In Congress, Massie serves on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure and the House Judiciary Committee. He is recognized for his libertarian views and often challenges party leadership on issues like government spending and civil liberties. In 2024, he was honored as “Hero of the Year” by the Solari Report for his commitment to principles such as food freedom, gun rights, and fiscal responsibility.
Recently, Massie opposed a continuing resolution aimed at preventing a government shutdown, a measure supported by the conservative House Freedom Caucus. This stance led former President Donald Trump to call for a primary challenge against him, criticizing Massie’s consistent “no” votes and accusing him of grandstanding.
Despite such threats, Massie has previously survived primary challenges and remains a prominent figure among certain Republican factions.
Massie resides on a cattle farm in Kentucky. He married his high school sweetheart, Rhonda, and they have four children. The family built their off-grid home using materials sourced from their property, reflecting Massie’s commitment to sustainable living.