In a surprising turn of events, Thomas Smith, a retired engineer, secured the Republican nomination for Michigan’s 8th Congressional District. Smith, who had previously suspended his campaign and endorsed another candidate, won over 50% of the vote in the primary.
Despite halting his campaign in July, Smith defeated both Al Lemmo, whom he endorsed and who finished third, and Amir Hassan, who was backed by former President Donald Trump. Trump’s endorsement of Hassan came through Truth Social in late June, and Hassan was also brought on stage during Trump’s rally at GM on July 27.
Hassan, a veteran of the Navy, managed to garner approximately 33% of the votes, placing him in second place.
Smith had publicly endorsed Lemmo through a Facebook video and announced his campaign’s suspension. Financial reports revealed that Smith had only raised $1,850 by the end of June. In contrast, Hassan’s campaign funding exceeded $700,000.
Despite ending his campaign, Smith’s name remained on the ballot as the official candidate list had already been finalized. The 8th District, which includes cities like Flint, Bay City, Saginaw, and Midland, will now see Smith face off against Democratic U.S. Representative Kristen McDonald Rivet in the upcoming November election.
In response to his unexpected victory, Smith expressed his gratitude, saying he was “humbled and honored that Republicans have chosen me to take the fight to Kristen McDonald Rivet.” Smith, who also owns a salsa business, will now challenge Rivet, who has reported raising over $5 million for her campaign.
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