William Lawrence, an environmental organizer known for advocating a moratorium on data center construction, has won the Democratic primary in Michigan's seventh congressional district. Lawrence, a co-founder of the Sunrise Movement, defeated Bridget Brink, a former US ambassador, and Matt Maasdam, a former US Navy Seal. He will face incumbent Republican Tom Barrett in the November general election.
Lawrence received endorsements from Senator Bernie Sanders, Representative Rashida Tlaib, and progressive Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed. His campaign focused on issues such as universal healthcare, increasing taxes on billionaires, and opposing arms sales to Israel. A key aspect of his platform was his opposition to the rapid expansion of AI data centers, which he argues place significant demands on the electrical grid.
A recent poll indicated that approximately two-thirds of voters, including nearly half of Republicans, support candidates advocating for a pause in data center construction. Lawrence stated that the results of the primary reflect a desire for representatives who prioritize the interests of local communities over corporate influences.