State Representative Donavan McKinney, a candidate endorsed by the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), won the Democratic primary in Michigan's 13th Congressional District, defeating incumbent Rep. Shri Thanedar.
McKinney's victory marks a notable win for DSA-backed candidates in the current election cycle, a trend that has seen progressive contenders achieve primary successes across the country and potentially reshape the Democratic Party's platform.
Thanedar, who had previously been a member of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, had broken with the DSA in October 2023 due to his support for Israel, citing the organization's response to what he called "hate-filled and antisemitic" rallies. He stated, "I stand with Israel and its right to defend itself," following the Oct. 7 attacks. Thanedar also expressed pride in American exceptionalism.
During his campaign, McKinney focused on issues such as affordability, environmental and climate justice, and reducing the influence of money in politics. He criticized Thanedar's personal wealth, arguing that the incumbent, a businessman who built a multi-million dollar company, was not representative of the district's constituents. "People like our congressman, Shri Thanedar, are the problem. A multimillionaire who spent millions to buy a seat in Congress, who has more in common with Donald Trump and Elon Musk than people like us," McKinney stated in a campaign video.
McKinney will proceed to the general election on November 3. This win follows other primary victories for DSA-backed candidates in New York, including Darializa Avila Chevalier's defeat of Rep. Adriano Espillat. The successes of candidates like McKinney and Kiros in Colorado, who unseated a 29-year incumbent, are seen by some as indicators of the DSA's growing influence within the Democratic Party.