DETROIT, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — In an unexpected turn of events, Democrat Adam Hollier’s campaign for the 13th Congressional District has been halted. Wayne County Clerk, Cathy Garrett, has declared that Hollier failed to submit the necessary valid signatures to qualify for the primary ballot. This ruling strips the candidate of his chance to compete, reshaping the electoral landscape overnight.

The disqualification follows a challenge from incumbent U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar, also a Democrat, who questioned the validity of Hollier’s petition signatures. Garrett’s office determined that Hollier submitted 1,553 signatures, but only 863 were valid, falling short of the required 1,000. Many signatures were invalidated due to issues such as duplicates, fraudulent entries, and signers residing outside the district.

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“I am extremely disappointed with the news from the Wayne County clerk,” Hollier said in a statement on May 21. “This decision impacts the voters of the 13th District who deserve a real choice in their representation.”

Thanedar, who narrowly defeated Hollier in the 2022 primary, now faces a less competitive race. His remaining opponents, Democrats Detroit City Council member Mary Waters and attorney Shakira Hawkins, lack the financial resources and political support that Hollier had garnered. 

Expressing his anticipation, Thanedar said, “I look forward to a vigorous campaign with those on the ballot and continuing to discuss my record and accomplishments for the 13th District.” 

This ruling has broader implications for Detroit, a city that is approximately 77% Black but has lacked Black representation in Congress since Thanedar’s victory in 2022. Hollier had significant backing from prominent Democrats and Black leaders who aimed to restore this representation.

Political strategist, Adrian Hemond, offered an overview of the campaign dynamics to Michigan Live: “Hollier was always going to be behind on resources, but he was at least going to have the resources to compete. Waters won’t,” he said. “Shri is going to spend money because that’s how he campaigns. And I expect that Shri will win this primary now.” 

Hollier’s campaign can still appeal to Michigan’s Secretary of State or the Wayne County Circuit Court.