Republican voters in Michigan's 8th Congressional District selected Thomas J. Smith as their candidate to challenge freshman Democratic Representative Kristen McDonald-Rivet, rejecting President Donald Trump's endorsement of rival candidate Amir Hassan. The result is notable both because it defies a presidential endorsement and because reports suggested Smith had at one point dropped out of the race, making his victory something of a surprise. The seat is considered a key swing district that Republicans are targeting as they seek to expand their majority in the House of Representatives in the November elections.

The primary was one of several House contests being closely watched as part of the broader 2026 midterm battle, with Michigan emerging as a significant battleground state for both parties. McDonald-Rivet, the Democratic incumbent, will now face Smith rather than Trump's preferred candidate, Hassan, in what is expected to be a competitive general election contest.