Trump-backed Bronze Star veteran secures party nod in must-win district

But the district is far from a guarantee.

Incumbent Rep. John James, R-Mich., last won reelection in 2024 in a 51.1% to 45.0% victory over Democratic challenger Carl Marlinga, a judge and former prosecutor.

The cycle before that, James beat out Marlinga by a narrow 48.8% to 48.3% win in 2022.

James, who enjoyed the benefit of incumbency, announced he would vacate the seat and instead pursue a gubernatorial bid, calling it a way to secure Michigan's prosperity for future generations.

"My family, like countless others, came to our great state for the better opportunities our manufacturing and automotive industries offered and to live the American dream," James said in a statement.

"Human trafficking, drug smuggling, known terrorists walked right in," he continued. "The Army taught me that weak leadership has consequences and I'm ready to lead America back."

On his website, Bouchard has highlighted fostering American manufacturing, finishing the southern border wall and increasing parental participation in education systems.

"Mike Bouchard has my complete and total endorsement to be the next representative from Michigan's 10th congressional district," he added.

Having cleared the Republican primary, Bouchard will head to the Nov. 3 general election.