Retired Army Captain Michael Bouchard Launches Campaign for Congress
After completing a nine-month deployment in Iraq, retired Army Captain Michael Bouchard is setting his sights on a new challenge: representing Michigan’s 10th Congressional District. He recently announced his candidacy to succeed Rep. John James (R-Mich.), who is stepping down to run for governor next year. With Veterans Day approaching, the Army veteran and Bronze Star recipient expressed his ambitions for Michigan.
“This race is going to be tough,” Bouchard remarked. “But I’m ready for that fight. I just got back from overseas, and I didn’t take any time off. I’m here, and I’m ready to serve the people in this district and anyone who loves this country.”
Bouchard noted that during his military service, he became acutely aware of how decisions made in Washington affect lives at home.
Veterans Stepping Up for Congressional Seats
“I spent around nine years in the Army, mostly active duty,” he said. “I was an infantry officer in the 101st Airborne Division and later served as an intelligence officer in the 82nd Airborne Division. After that, I joined the National Guard. Then I was deployed to Iraq, where I spent the last nine months. I came back just two weeks ago and am diving into the campaign.”
Bouchard recognized that the situation in global politics prompted his desire to act. Following the chaotic end of the U.S. mission in Afghanistan, he predicted that nations like Russia, China, and North Korea would become more aggressive, and shortly after, Russia did invade Ukraine.
“For me, ‘peace through strength’ is more than just a saying; it’s a reality I’ve experienced,” Bouchard asserted. “I’ve led troops in high-stakes situations, and I know what it means to make tough decisions.”
His military career is an essential part of his motivation to run for Congress. “I understand the consequences when leadership fails to stand up for this country,” he reflected. “I’ve been involved in significant negotiations and life-and-death choices overseas, and have defended our nation right here at home.”
As he spoke with the press before Veterans Day, Bouchard emphasized the need for reforms within the Department of Veterans Affairs to better support military families and enhance healthcare access. “The whole family serves when someone is in the military,” he said. “Unfortunately, the systems meant to support them can be quite inefficient. Change is needed, and I want to champion those reforms.”
A lifelong resident of Michigan, Bouchard is a third-generation native with deep ties to the community—his father serves as the Oakland County Sheriff, while his grandfather fought in World War II and later worked at General Motors.
“I love this state. I’ve grown up here, and I call this district my home,” he shared. “The people here are truly the ‘salt of the earth.’ They want to work hard, provide for their families, and ensure their children get a great education—without politics getting in the way.”
Bouchard voiced aspirations beyond just military matters. “I don’t just want to win future wars; I want to help rebuild our economy so we can avoid them altogether. A strong economy can keep us out of conflicts,” he argued.
As he continues his campaign, housing affordability remains a pressing issue for him. “Right now, home prices are skyrocketing,” he lamented. “High interest rates are making it really tough for people to buy the homes they dream of. It’s crucial that we simplify regulations at the federal level to help families find affordable homes.”
Bouchard also mentioned the importance of retaining Republican control in Congress. “This race carries national weight,” he stated. “Losing this seat could mean the loss of the House of Representatives, and frankly, I’m concerned about what that might mean for our leadership.”
