LANSING, Mich. — The Democratic Party is facing challenges in Michigan’s 7th Congressional District as it approaches the November midterm elections. Party leaders are considering two candidates, former Navy SEAL Matt Maasdam and former Ukraine ambassador Bridget Brink, who are competing for support in a battleground district. However, a third candidate, William Lawrence, co-founder of the climate activism group Sunrise Movement, poses a potential threat to their candidacies.
Democratic strategists express concern that Lawrence's nomination could lead to electoral difficulties in a district currently held by Republican Rep. Tom Barrett, which narrowly supported Donald Trump in the 2024 election. Emily Cherniack, founder of New Politics, noted the lack of unity among centrist Democrats, stating, "It’s a mess." Cherniack anticipates that Lawrence could win even with less than 50% of the vote.
Recent polling indicates Lawrence leading the primary field with 38% support, while Maasdam and Brink follow in second and third place, respectively. The district, which includes Lansing, is classified as a “toss-up” by The Cook Political Report, making it a key target for Democrats aiming to gain seats in the upcoming elections.
Some Democratic strategists have criticized the party's inability to consolidate support behind a single candidate to prevent a progressive from winning. Matt Bennett, co-founder of the Democratic think tank Third Way, emphasized the need for mainstream Democrats to navigate these races more effectively.
Both Maasdam and Brink have expressed confidence in their chances to win the primary and general elections, with Maasdam suggesting that the candidate trailing in the polls should consider stepping aside. Brink countered that outside spending on Maasdam’s campaign reflects weakness in his candidacy.
As the campaign progresses, both candidates have continued to attack each other, while Lawrence has benefited from significant outside spending, including over $1 million in ads believed to be funded by a Republican group aimed at influencing the Democratic primary.
The competition has led to endorsements being split among local leaders, with Maasdam receiving support from Sen. Elissa Slotkin and Brink backed by former Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Lawrence has focused his campaign on addressing the negative campaigning between Maasdam and Brink, emphasizing a positive message to voters.