Congressional Black Caucus endorses challenger over Indian American Rep. Shri Thanedar

CBC backing a challenger to incumbent Indian American congressman breaks with convention

In a significant development for Michigan’s 13th congressional district, the powerful Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) has thrown its support behind Adam Hollier, the opponent of first-term Indian American Representative Shri Thanedar.

Thanedar, a Democrat seeking reelection, now faces a formidable challenge from Hollier, who has secured key endorsements and the backing of influential figures within the CBC.

READ: Shri Thanedar seeks to raise small business loan limit (February 15, 2024)

CBC chair Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.) and former chair Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio) endorsed Hollier, emphasizing his commitment to serving the community and prioritizing the needs of constituents. The endorsement on Friday adds weight to Hollier’s campaign, particularly in a district where more than 45 percent of the population is black.

The Michigan congressional primary is in August.

Hollier, who previously lost to Thanedar in the 2022 Democratic primary, has been gathering momentum in his bid for the congressional seat. In addition to the CBC endorsement, he has received backing from Michigan’s secretary of state, the state’s House Speaker, and other prominent members of the state Legislature, according to The Hill.

While endorsing him, Horsford praised Hollier’s leadership qualities and dedication to advancing the interests of his constituents. He highlighted Hollier’s commitment to protecting freedoms, fighting for rights, and ensuring opportunities for all members of the community.

Despite facing headwinds from the CBC endorsement, Thanedar remains optimistic about his reelection prospects. In a press release last week, he announced the support of over 15 influential elected officials and organizations, including three of his Indian American congressional colleagues: Raja Krishnamoorthi, Ami Bera, and Ro Khanna.

Thanedar also emphasized his substantial financial resources, citing a cash-at-hand amount of over $5 million to support his reelection campaign.

READ: Shri Thanedar introduces bill to keep PhDs in America (June 26, 2023)

The Detroit News reported that Thanedar has loaned his campaign over $3.3 million since December. In contrast, Hollier, who raised over $347,180 last quarter, closed out with $570,207 in the bank, which is a little less than a tenth of the campaign cash Thanedar has. However, the paper highlighted that it was the second quarter during which Hollier had outraised Thanedar in terms of donations to his campaign.

The endorsement from the CBC underscores the challenge Thanedar now faces in retaining his seat in the primary.

The Detroit News noted the rarity of House Democrats endorsing a primary challenger to a sitting colleague, highlighting the significance of the CBC’s support for Hollier. With endorsements from prominent figures within the CBC and other influential leaders, Hollier’s campaign gains momentum as the primary election approaches.