Detroit Democrats aiming to replace a fellow party member in Congress

In Holland, Michigan, Detroit Democrats are once again making efforts to bring back Black representation to the city by challenging an incumbent. The party is currently engaged in a public dispute over whether it is the right approach to contest their own members.

Donavan McKinney, a 32-year-old state representative, officially launched his Democratic campaign in Michigan’s 13th Congressional District on Monday, entering the race alongside former state Sen. Adam Hollier. Both young Black Democrats from Detroit are vying to replace second-term U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar in the primary election.

McKinney expressed his motivation for running, stating, “I am entering this race because our community needs a representative who will stand up against the challenges posed by the Trump-Musk administration. We require someone who has personally experienced these challenges and will advocate for us with the necessary urgency demanded by the current circumstances.”

The race comes as House Democrats clash publicly over the party’s direction ahead of the 2026 midterms, where they hope to regain the majority.

McKinney quickly announced endorsements from several Detroit-area state lawmakers and is receiving support from Justice Democrats, a group aligned with the “squad” in the House that is known for helping elect progressive candidates to Congress.

Democratic National Committee Vice Chair David Hogg has faced sharp criticism from within his own party after announcing plans to raise money for candidates challenging Democratic incumbents. Hogg argues the party needs fresh leadership willing to confront Republican President Donald Trump more aggressively and better connect with younger voters.

Asked whether Hogg planned to get involved in the 13th district race, a spokesperson said they were not yet disclosing which races he would support.

Thanedar, a wealthy former state representative and immigrant from India, has faced steady pressure and criticism from some Democrats in his district since winning a crowded nine-way primary in 2022 and securing the seat. His victory left Detroit — nearly 80% Black — without Black representation in Congress for the first time since before Charles Diggs Jr. took office in 1955.

Thanedar did not immediately respond to a text seeking comment.

Hollier launched a bid to defeat Thanedar in 2024 and received significant backing, before he was left off the ballot after election officials determined that he had not submitted enough valid signatures.