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Trump-Backed Michigan Candidate Loses Primary to Rival Who Suspended His Campaign
The New York Times • • nation
Key Points:
- In a surprising primary upset in central Michigan, Tom Smith, a small-business owner who had previously suspended his campaign, defeated Amir Hassan, a Navy veteran endorsed by President Trump and prominent Republican leaders.
- Despite Trump rallying for Hassan and endorsements from Speaker Mike Johnson and Senator Tim Scott, Smith won decisively and is now reviving his campaign to challenge Democratic Representative Kristen McDonald Rivet.
- The district is a key battleground, having voted for both a Democratic representative and President Trump in 2024, making Rivet's seat a top Republican target this election cycle.
- Smith had earlier endorsed another candidate, Al Lemmo, and had suspended his own campaign, but now he is actively pursuing the nomination after his unexpected primary victory.
