Trump-backed candidate loses Michigan primary to opponent who dropped out

Published Aug 5, 02:04 PM UTC

President Donald Trump suffered an embarrassing political defeat in Michigan's 8th Congressional District Republican primary. His handpicked candidate, Amir Hassan, a veteran and self-proclaimed 'America First Patriot,' lost decisively to Thomas Smith, who had dropped out of the race weeks earlier and ceased all campaigning. Hassan secured only 33.2% of the vote against Smith's 50.4%, a margin of over 10,000 votes. The loss was compounded by internal MAGA criticism of Hassan due to his Muslim background, despite his identification as a Christian and strong pro-Israel stance. The outcome undermines Trump's claimed kingmaker status. Smith, who previously endorsed another candidate, will now face Democratic Representative Kristen McDonald Rivet in the general election, though his participation remains uncertain.