William Lawrence, a co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, secured the Democratic nomination for Michigan's 7th Congressional District on Tuesday, defeating establishment-backed candidates Bridget Brink and Matt Maasdam. Lawrence's victory represents a significant win for the progressive wing of the Democratic Party.
Lawrence will now challenge incumbent Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Mich., who is seeking his second term in the House of Representatives. Barrett ran unopposed in the Republican primary. The 7th District was previously held by Democrat Elissa Slotkin, who vacated the seat to successfully run for the Senate in 2024.
Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., a prominent member of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), endorsed Lawrence. He also received an endorsement from Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., a self-described democratic socialist. The DSA itself has not endorsed a candidate in this particular race.
The Sunrise Movement, which Lawrence helped found in 2017, initially focused on climate activism and promoting the Green New Deal. According to its website, the organization's platform has since expanded to include policies such as advocating for the removal of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from U.S. cities and the abolition of police.
Lawrence's win is seen as a potential boost for Republicans in their efforts to maintain control of the House of Representatives. Mike Marinella, spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC), stated that such victories for progressive candidates leave Democrats with "a radical socialist nominee, an emptier bank account, and another must-win seat off the board."