With a razor-thin 219-212 majority in the U.S. House, Republicans are eyeing crossover districts—the 13 congressional districts where President Trump won at the top of the ticket, but Democrats held on down-ballot. This strategy underscores their determination to expand their legislative influence beyond their current majority. Top priorities for the GOP are Ohio’s 9th Congressional District, held by Rep. Marcy Kaptur, and Michigan’s 8th District, represented by Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet.
Leaders like Brian Jack, Trump’s former political director, are spearheading these efforts. Jack visited the crossover districts recently, emphasizing the need for candidates who align with the changing political climate. He criticized Kaptur for her voting record on Trump’s impeachment, arguing that her actions were out of step with her constituents’ preferences. Jack noted that Trump’s strong showing in these districts suggests a shift in voter alignment, making them critical targets for GOP campaigns.
Much of the GOP campaign strategy centers on promoting Trump’s ‘big, beautiful bill’—a comprehensive legislative agenda that includes tax cuts, green energy reform, and border security. Jack highlighted the importance of educating voters about the bill’s details, which he claims encapsulate Trump’s campaign promises. Meanwhile, Democrats are pushing back against these efforts by highlighting Medicaid cuts and other issues, aiming to counter the GOP narrative.
For the Ohio 9th District, Republican candidates include Derek Merrin, a former GOP nominee, and Josh Williams, an Ohio state Rep. In Michigan, Navy veteran Amir Hassan is the only declared GOP candidate for the 8th District. While the Democrats have not yet responded to the GOP’s campaign strategies, their focus remains on addressing voter concerns about healthcare and economic affordability.