August 5, 2026 | Press Release

RNC Statement on MI-08 Primary

Press Release

Washington D.C. – Republican National Committee (RNC) Chairman Joe Gruters released the following statement on Michigan's 8th Congressional District primary:

 

“Congratulations to Thomas Smith on a hard-fought, well-earned primary victory. As a small business owner, skilled-trades supervisor, and engineer, Smith understands what it takes to create jobs and deliver for working families. Now, he’s ready to defeat vulnerable Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet, who took credit for President Trump’s historic tax cuts for Michigan families, sold out her constituents to the Chinese Communist Party, and turned a blind eye to violent criminal illegal aliens.” 

 

Kristen McDonald Rivet:

  • Opposed protecting 170,000 jobs, preserving $15 billion in wages, and $30 billion in economic output across Michigan
  • Raised taxes on working families
  • Sided with a CCP-linked electric vehicle battery company over the objections of her own constituents
  • Made a racist joke about the 2023 Michigan State shooting
  • Is backed by activists supporting gender transition procedures for minors, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy 
  • Refuses to support rural communities