Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar has lost the Democratic primary for Michigan’s 13th Congressional District, ending his bid for another term in the US House of Representatives. State Representative Donavan McKinney emerged victorious in the closely contested race, earning 51.9% of the vote compared with Thanedar’s 48.1%, according to results confirmed by the Associated Press.
McKinney will now represent the Democratic Party in the November general election. Since the district has long been considered a Democratic stronghold, he is widely expected to have a favorable path to winning the congressional seat.
The outcome marks another victory for the Democratic Party’s progressive movement, which has increasingly challenged incumbent lawmakers during primary elections. McKinney received endorsements from influential progressive figures and organizations, including Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Rashida Tlaib, Justice Democrats, and Leaders We Deserve.
Throughout his campaign, McKinney promoted policies such as universal healthcare, increased investments in affordable housing and clean energy, and stricter conditions on US military assistance to Israel. While both candidates supported several progressive priorities, they differed significantly on the conflict in Gaza. McKinney strongly criticized Israel’s military campaign, whereas Thanedar consistently backed military aid to Israel during his time in Congress.
Following the results, Thanedar acknowledged the broader political shift within the Democratic Party. He noted that the progressive movement, which has unseated several incumbents in other states, had now gained momentum in Michigan. Despite his defeat, Thanedar pledged to support McKinney in the upcoming general election.
Thanedar’s campaign also faced several challenges during the race. He drew criticism from some Democratic colleagues after introducing articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump without broad party support. Questions were also raised over reported cryptocurrency investment losses exceeding $2 million and the use of taxpayer-funded television advertisements that resembled campaign messaging. Nevertheless, he maintained the backing of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and several senior Democratic lawmakers.
The result could reduce Indian-American representation in the US House of Representatives, depending on the outcomes of the November elections. Thanedar, who moved to the United States from India in 1979 to pursue doctoral studies in chemistry, described serving in Congress as the greatest honor of his life. He said he intends to remain engaged in public service and continue supporting the people of his community despite the election setback.
