Trump-backed groups pull funding from Michigan swing district as Democrats gain edge

A senior Republican source revealed that MAGA Inc. and a prominent House Republican super PAC intend to cease financial support for the Michigan 8th District race within days, shifting resources elsewhere. The move acknowledges the perceived lead of Democratic incumbent Kristen McDonald Rivet over Republican challenger Tom Smith, leading the Cook Political Report to rate the contest as “Likely Democrat.” This pullback is part of a broader strategy to reallocate money from less winnable districts toward those where GOP hopes remain higher, with comparable adjustments already seen in North Carolina and Georgia Senate contests.

Republicans face a challenging midterm landscape, with several districts Trump won in 2024 now vulnerable, and polls showing Democrats ahead on the generic congressional ballot. Despite an unpopular war on Iran hurting the economy, MAGA Inc. has spent over $200 million this cycle and continues to pour millions into other races, such as Texas Senate candidate Ken Paxton and Ohio Senate contests.