Radical Sunrise Movement Co-Founder Wins Michigan 7th District Democratic Primary
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William Lawrence, a far-left activist and co-founder of the radical Sunrise Movement, clinches the Democratic nomination in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, setting up a high-stakes general election against Republican Rep. Tom Barrett in a crucial battleground.
William Lawrence, a co-founder of the far-left Sunrise Movement known for its extreme climate agenda, has won the Democratic primary in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, according to NBC News projections. Lawrence defeated two more moderate candidates—former Ambassador Bridget Brink and retired Navy SEAL Matt Maasdam—who split the district’s sensible Democratic vote, allowing the radical wing to prevail.
This district, narrowly won by President Donald Trump in 2024, will now see Lawrence face off against incumbent Republican Rep. Tom Barrett in November. The race has drawn enormous spending from Super PACs and outside groups, making it one of the most expensive House contests, as left-wing activists pour money into flipping the seat.
Lawrence’s campaign was propped up by endorsements and financial support from a range of progressive organizations, with a super PAC dumping over $1 million in the final weeks of the primary. Some Democrats have even raised alarms that Republican interests might be quietly supporting Lawrence, viewing him as a weak and vulnerable candidate for the general election.
Other competitive primaries took place in Michigan’s 4th and 10th districts, as well as in several swing districts across Virginia, Missouri, and Washington state, where both incumbents and challengers are preparing for the upcoming midterm elections.