Tom Smith, a Republican candidate who suspended his campaign for Michigan's 8th Congressional District, has resurfaced after winning the district's GOP primary and vowed to challenge incumbent Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet.
Smith made his remarks at a Republican unity brunch in Macomb County following Tuesday's primary elections. "My name is Tom Smith, and I’m running for the 8th Congressional District to unseat communist comrade Rivet," Smith stated, adding that he would need the help of Republican activists.
Despite suspending his campaign last month and endorsing a fellow contender, Al Lemmo, Smith secured the Republican nomination. Lemmo finished third in the primary, behind Smith and Trump-backed candidate Amir Hassan, who came in second.
Hassan conceded his defeat in a social media video, stating, "I fell short last night. I make no excuse. It was a tough race." He congratulated his opponents and expressed his intention to "flip the eighth" district, despite his loss.
Smith, in a statement to CNN, expressed that he was "humbled and honored" to advance to the general election. He indicated his intention to collaborate with House Speaker Mike Johnson and the Republican team to "expand our House majority and advance President Trump’s America First agenda."