Tom Smith, a Michigan Republican who paused his campaign for the 8th Congressional District, received a surprise victory in the primary. Despite endorsing an opponent, Smith is committed to challenging Democratic Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet in the general election.

Smith attended a GOP unity brunch in Macomb County, where he announced his plan to defeat Rivet. He appealed to Republican supporters for assistance in his campaign efforts. Smith did not respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comments on resuming his campaign.

“My name is Tom Smith, and I’m running for the 8th Congressional District to unseat communist comrade Rivet,” Smith stated at the event. “And I’ll need your help to do it.”

Smith expressed gratitude in a statement to CNN, saying he was “humbled and honored” to be seen as a candidate capable of challenging Democrats in the November election. He looks forward to collaborating with Speaker Johnson and the Republican team to bolster the party’s presence in the House and promote President Trump’s America First agenda focused on lowering costs for families.

Previously, Smith suspended his candidacy and endorsed Al Lemmo, who ended up third in the GOP primary. Despite this, Smith emerged victorious, beating Trump-endorsed Amir Hassan, who finished second by a wide margin. Hassan posted a candid video following his loss, where he acknowledged the difficulties of the race without offering excuses.

“I fell short last night. I make no excuse. It was a tough race,” Hassan shared from his car. “I know what God has in store for me – something greater, even if I can’t see it right now and don’t understand.”

Hassan congratulated his competitors and encouraged his supporters, remaining optimistic about future opportunities to eventually “flip the eighth.”

Alec Schemmel, a Politics Reporter with Fox News Digital, reported on this development. Originally from Charlotte, North Carolina, Schemmel now resides in the Washington D.C.-Baltimore Metro Area.