Retired engineer Thomas J. “Tom” Smith won the Republican primary for Michigan’s 8th Congressional District on Tuesday, August 5th, 2026, securing 50.4% of the vote compared to 33.2% for Navy veteran and law enforcement officer Amir Hassan, who was endorsed by former President Donald Trump.

Smith had suspended his campaign on July 17th but remained on the ballot and continued to receive votes. He publicly threw his support behind fellow engineer Al Lemmo, who finished third with 16.4% of the vote. Smith carried every county in the district, according to The New York Times.

Despite raising over $727,000 through mid-July, Hassan was unable to overcome Smith’s unexpected victory. Smith had described his campaign as a "late entry" and reported raising only $1,850 through the end of June.

Before the primary results were called, Smith stated, “I am humbled and honored. I look forward to working with Speaker Johnson and the entire Republican team to expand our House majority and advance President Trump’s America First agenda to lower costs for working families and make America affordable again.”

Trump had publicly endorsed Hassan on July 28th via Truth Social, calling it his "Great Honor to endorse Amir Hassan" and assuring voters that Hassan "will never let you down."

Sources