McDonald Rivet leads Smith in eighth district race

Democratic Representative Kristen McDonald Rivet holds an early lead over Republican Tom Smith in Michigans competitive eighth congressional district. Early returns show the incumbent ahead in a race targeted closely by both parties.

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Michigan U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet speaks during a groundbreaking ceremony on the site of the former Flint Central high school, for a new high school in Flint, June 17, 2026.

Democratic U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet leads Republican challenger Tom Smith 59% to 39% in early election returns across the United States congressional district. The race in Michigan's 8th Congressional District highlights a fiercely contested battleground. McDonald Rivet seeks her second term in the House representing Flint, Saginaw, and Midland.