In a closely watched Democratic primary for Michigan’s Seventh Congressional District, three candidates are vying to challenge vulnerable Republican Representative Tom Barrett in the November midterm elections. The contest has grown increasingly contentious as two moderate contenders, Matt Maasdam and Bridget A. Brink, refuse to drop out despite concerns that their split could enable progressive candidate William Lawrence to secure the nomination.
The district, viewed as a key battleground, has drawn sharp attention because Barrett is considered one of the most at-risk Republican incumbents this cycle. Democrats see an opportunity to reclaim the seat and inch closer to regaining control of the House, but intra-party divisions have raised concerns about their ability to unite behind a nominee who appeals to centrist voters.
Matt Maasdam, a retired Navy SEAL, and Bridget Brink, a former U.S. ambassador to Ukraine who resigned in protest of former President Donald Trump’s administration policies, represent the moderate wing of the party. The rivalry between their campaigns escalated last month when Senator Elissa Slotkin, who previously held the seat before Barrett, endorsed Maasdam, appeared in a super PAC advertisement supporting him, and lent her name to his fundraising efforts. Brink’s supporters expressed frustration, believing she had a stronger chance to defeat Barrett in the general election.
Meanwhile, William Lawrence, a progressive organizer endorsed by Senator Bernie Sanders, has gained traction throughout the final weeks of the race. Lawrence’s platform includes support for Medicare for All and ending arms sales to Israel. However, his campaign has been marred by controversy after a past comment resurfaced in which he criticized senior Black Democratic leaders, prompting calls from the Congressional Black Caucus political arm for his backers to withdraw support. Lawrence issued a statement expressing regret and emphasized his commitment to growth and party unity, noting he would back Representative Hakeem Jeffries for House speaker if elected.
The primary has been marked by negative advertising and accusations of outside interference. A recently formed super PAC, Michigan Sunrise PAC, has aired ads attacking Maasdam while promoting Lawrence. Some Democrats have accused the group of being a Republican front, citing its ties to a South Dakota bank linked to GOP operatives; however, the PAC has declined to comment.
Both Brink and Maasdam have distanced themselves from these attacks. Brink asserted that voters are growing tired of negative campaigning, while Maasdam’s campaign emphasized their focus on engaging directly with constituents rather than assigning blame.
Democrats remain concerned that the bitter primary dispute could weaken their position in November, while progressives view Lawrence’s rise as part of a broader insurgent movement gaining momentum in Democratic primaries nationwide. The outcome of Tuesday’s vote will shape the party’s strategy in a pivotal district with significant implications for control of the House of Representatives this fall.