Rep. Rashida Tlaib Defends “Challenging” First Term in Reelection Bid

Detroit’s state and local primary election is Aug. 4.

See more information on the Aug. 4 primary election here.

Detroit Today with Stephen Henderson is dedicated to highlighting candidates on the ballot.

One of the biggest races to watch in Southeast Michigan is in the 13th Congressional District, where Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib is running for re-election after a first term that has made her a national household name. She says that although her first term as a congresswoman has been “challenging,” she has always been focused on making changes that will positively impact the lives of her constituents.

“We’ve been really doing some incredible things to bring things to our residents,” Tlaib says.

Interview: Rep. Rashida Tlaib

Tlaib faces challenger Detroit City Council President Brenda Jones, who was interviewed on Detroit Today last week to discuss her campaign.

“I am so laser focused on not selling out and trying to elevate folks who have felt other-ed and who feel that government is leaving them behind.” — Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib

Candidate Brief

Key experience: 13th Congressional District Representative, State Representative (12th district, 6th district)

Major endorsements: Detroit Free Press, Detroit News, Wayne County Democratic Black Caucus

Issues:

• Her national profile: Tlaib says accusations that her national profile has been a detriment to her district work are a “myth.” “It has actually made the issues that matter to the 13th District stronger — and look at the results, 35 bills,” she says. 
• Environment: Tlaib says that much of her work as the Vice Chair of the Subcommittee on the Environment tackles national issues that simultaneously affect Michigan’s 13th district. “Water shutoff is a national issue. This is not a Detroit or Flint issue when it comes to lead contaminated pipelines. This is not a 13th district issue, this is a national issue,” Tlaib says.
• Representation: Tlaib says accusations that she did not live within the 13th district when she ran for her legislative seat are untrue. “I have lived in every district that I have run in. Everyone knew where I lived because residents would actually come at 10:00 pm knocking on my door,” she says.
• Racial Justice: Tlaib says she advocates for racial justice and works to make the voices of Black people and other racial and ethnic minorities heard.”I am so laser focused on not selling out and trying to elevate folks who have felt other-ed and who feel that government is leaving them behind,” she says.

This article was written by Detroit Today student producer Ali Audet.