Thomas Smith, who withdrew from the Republican primary contest for Michigan’s eighth district last month, won the nomination on Tuesday. Unofficial results, according to the Associated Press, show Smith secured more than 50% of the vote.
Smith defeated anti-abortion activist Al Lemmo, whom he had endorsed, and former federal law enforcement officer Amir Hassan, who was endorsed by Donald Trump. Smith had posted on social media in July to endorse Lemmo, describing Hassan as a crypto-Republican.
In a statement on Wednesday, Smith expressed that he was “humbled and honored that Republicans have chosen me to take the fight to Kristen McDonald Rivet,” the Democratic incumbent. He also stated his intention to work with Speaker Mike Johnson to expand the House majority and advance President Trump’s “America first” agenda.
A US House candidate in Michigan must withdraw their candidacy before 24 April for their name to be removed from ballots. The Federal Election Commission has no electronic campaign finance filings from Smith, but does have a handwritten letter dated 12 July declaring $1,850 in fundraising.