The progressive wing of the Democratic Party gained a significant victory in Michigan during a contentious primary election. William Lawrence, a co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, emerged victorious against two establishment-backed Democrats in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District.
Lawrence defeated Bridget Brink, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine, and Matt Maasdam, a former Navy SEAL, to secure the Democratic nomination. He will face Representative Tom Barrett, R-Mich., in the upcoming general election. Barrett, a military veteran, won unopposed in the Republican primary after securing the seat in 2024.
This victory for Lawrence is part of the larger conflict within the Democratic Party between its progressive and establishment wings. Across the nation, similar battles are unfolding.
Lawrence has garnered support from notable figures, including Representative Rashida Tlaib, D-Mich., and Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. The Sunrise Movement, co-founded by Lawrence in 2017, initially focused on climate activism and advocating for the Green New Deal.
Now, its platform includes broader social policies, such as removing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) from cities and advocating for the abolition of police forces.
Despite the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) not endorsing a candidate in this particular race, Lawrence continues to receive substantial support from prominent progressive figures.
The victory of Lawrence is viewed favorably by Republicans, who are currently striving to maintain control of the House of Representatives.