Kathy Barnette, a Republican Senate candidate in Pennsylvania, has a social media history packed with anti-Muslim and anti-LGBTQ sentiments, as well as conspiracy theories about former President Obama.

Why it matters: Barnette's social media posts have drawn scrutiny because she has garnered a lot of buzz in the closely watched Pennsylvania race, surprising — and frightening — many influential Republicans in Washington.

Driving the news: Former President Donald Trump warned Republicans Thursday that Barnette's history will preclude her from winning a general election in Pennsylvania. Trump has endorsed celebrity TV doctor Mehmet Oz in the race.

• Trump said there are many things that have "not been properly explained or vetted" about her past. But if they're explained, she will have a "bright future" in the Republican party.
• Trump ally Steve Bannon told Axios that Barnette has resonated among the Republican base by not conceding her own 2020 House race loss.
• "Pennsylvania is MAGA v. ULTRA MAGA," Bannon said.

Barnette told NBC News that Trump's comments are a positive step forward and she is eager to work with the GOP.

• "[W]e know that President Trump does not mince words," she said. "He’s a very straight shooter. And I look forward to working with the president.”
• "I look forward to working with them to win a very important seat. Not just in Pennsylvania, but for our nation," she said.

Flashback: In tweets dating back to 2013, Barnette has attacked Islam and Muslims, and...

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