Trump and McCarthy attempt to remove Bob Good from House Freedom Caucus in Virginia GOP primary.

Republican voters in Virginia’s 5th Congressional District are facing a crucial decision as they head to the polls on Tuesday. They must choose between incumbent House Freedom Caucus Chairman Bob Good and Virginia state Sen. John McGuire, a former Navy SEAL. The outcome of this race is expected to shine a light on the internal divide within the Trump faction of the GOP.

The Cook Political Report, a respected nonpartisan election tracker, has labeled the race as “Solid Republican,” indicating that the winner of the Republican primary is likely to secure victory in the general election in Southside Virginia.

Good, who is seeking his fifth term, has faced challenges in his bid for reelection. He lost the support of Republicans aligned with Kevin McCarthy following his vote to remove McCarthy as speaker. Additionally, former President Donald Trump withdrew his endorsement of Good after he backed Trump’s primary rival, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Although Good eventually endorsed Trump after DeSantis dropped out of the race, Trump criticized Good for being tardy in his support. Trump took to Truth Social to express his dissatisfaction, stating, “It was too late,” and threw his support behind McGuire, describing him as a “true American Hero” and the candidate who can best assist in making America great again.

During a rally in support of McGuire, Trump emphasized the importance of preventing Good from securing another term, likening his actions to a betrayal. McGuire has also taken to airing ads that highlight Good’s disloyalty to Trump, positioning himself as a dependable and straightforward alternative.

Not only has McGuire garnered Trump’s endorsement, but he has also received backing from other Trump-aligned Republicans such as Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Warren Davidson. Several GOP colleagues of Good from Washington have traveled to the district to support McGuire, with Rep. Jen Kiggans of Virginia even actively participating in fundraising efforts for Good’s opponent.

Despite these challenges, Good has retained a significant number of endorsements from congressional Republicans, including Reps. Matt Gaetz, Byron Donald, and Ben Cline, signaling a split within the party over the outcome of this race.

Outside groups have also played a significant role in the campaign, with organizations like Club for Growth and the House Freedom Fund pouring resources into supporting Good’s reelection bid. In contrast, groups associated with McCarthy have spent millions in an attempt to oust him. McGuire managed to narrowly outpace Good in fundraising, further intensifying the competition.

This election marks McCarthy’s second endeavor to unseat lawmakers who supported his removal as speaker. Despite his efforts, Rep. Nancy Mace successfully defended her position after winning her primary last week.

As the primary unfolds, polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, giving voters the opportunity to influence the future landscape of their district and the broader political arena.