Republicans in Michigan's 8th Congressional District have selected Thomas J. Smith as their nominee to challenge incumbent Democratic Rep. Kristen McDonald-Rivet. Smith secured the victory over Amir Hassan, who had received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump.
The 8th District, which spans Flint, Saginaw, Midland, and Bay City, is considered a competitive area in the upcoming November elections. Smith, a former GM employee, emphasized a platform focused on conservative leadership, protecting constitutional freedoms, supporting working families, and securing borders.
Despite Trump's backing of Hassan, who highlighted his family's ties to the automotive industry and a desire to return to "fundamentals," Smith ultimately prevailed. Smith reportedly suspended his own campaign in July and endorsed another candidate, Al Lemmo, prior to the primary. Lemmo, a retired Army automotive mechanical engineer, had run on a pro-life and pro-onshoring platform.
Smith garnered just over 50% of the vote, according to reports by Wednesday morning, with the Associated Press declaring him the winner. He expressed his gratitude to Republicans for choosing him to challenge McDonald-Rivet.
McDonald-Rivet, who previously served as a state senator, won her own primary on Tuesday. She is seeking to hold onto the seat she won by approximately six points in the 2024 election cycle.