Paul Junge wins GOP primary in Michigan

Paul Junge has emerged victorious in the GOP primary for Michigan’s 8th Congressional District, positioning himself as the Republican nominee to succeed retiring Democrat Rep. Dan Kildee. This marks Junge's third attempt at the congressional seat, having previously run unsuccessfully. His background includes a role in the Department of Homeland Security under former President Donald Trump and serving as an investigative counsel for Senate Judiciary Committee chair Sen. Chuck Grassley. In his campaign, Junge emphasizes economic issues, stating that addressing the rising cost of goods and improving the economy for working families are his top priorities. He also aims to combat illegal immigration and the influx of synthetic opioids, which he claims are harming communities across Michigan and the nation. Junge's focus on energy independence echoes sentiments from other candidates, highlighting the need for the U.S. to rely less on foreign energy sources. Another candidate, Hudson, an Army veteran from Texas, is also vying for the seat, advocating for job creation in Michigan and stronger border security. He expresses frustration with the current direction of the country and aims to facilitate a return of jobs to Michigan while opposing foreign investments he believes are detrimental to the state. Junge will now face the winner of the Democratic primary, where three candidates are competing to fill Kildee's position. Kildee has held the congressional seat since 2012 but announced his decision not to seek re-election last November.