Democratic candidate Christina Hines has officially announced her bid for Congress, bringing a competitive edge to Democrats in a purple district in the Detroit suburbs. As a former special victims prosecutor, Hines is determined to bring trustworthiness and a fighting spirit to Washington.
Hines was motivated to run for office after President Donald Trump issued an executive order to wind down the Department of Education. This decision, coupled with her passion for fighting for others, compelled her and her husband to take action. Hines believes that now is not the time to be complacent, but rather a time to step up and be a voice for the people in Michigan’s tenth district.
The district, encompassing parts of Oakland and Macomb counties, has leaned towards Republicans in recent years. However, with incumbent Rep. John James potentially vacating the seat for a gubernatorial bid, Democrats see an opportunity to flip the district. James narrowly won the seat in 2022 and secured a more comfortable victory in 2024.
Notably, Hines has garnered the endorsement of former judge and attorney Carl Marlinga, who previously ran against James. Marlinga, who decided not to run this time, believes Hines is the fresh, new leader needed in Washington. He praised her as a fighter who understands the community and its residents.
Hines positions herself as a centrist candidate, stating that she does not align strongly with either end of the political spectrum. She has been in communication with the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and anticipates a relatively uncontested primary.
However, Hines faces competition within her own party. Army veteran Alex Hawkins has already launched a campaign, and former Rep. Andy Levin, who represented parts of the district before redistricting, is contemplating a return to electoral politics in Michigan.
With a mix of new faces and experienced politicians vying for the seat, the race for Michigan’s tenth district is shaping up to be a highly contested and dynamic contest. Voters will have the opportunity to choose a candidate who best represents their values and vision for the future.