COVINGTON, Kentucky — When interviewed earlier this month about why he was challenging Republican Rep. Thomas Massie in a primary for his suburban House seat come June, Todd McMurtry cited Massie’s devotion to his libertarian ideology. The congressman, McMurtry said, was putting those ideas over the needs of the district.

Massie, who has been dubbed “Mister No” by Washington reporters for his stubborn habit of opposing bipartisan legislation, drew national attention Friday when he forced a number of House members to return to Washington because of his opposition to the coronavirus relief bill. Massie attempted to force a recorded vote — a request that required a quorum (216 members) be present.