Michigan Candidate Criticizes Police as Oppressive

In the wake of George Floyd's death in 2020, Kristen McDonald-Rivet, a Democratic candidate for a U.S. House seat in Michigan, called for a significant overhaul of the police, describing the institution as rooted in oppression. Her remarks, made in a Facebook post following a protest in Bay City, have resurfaced as she campaigns for the upcoming election. McDonald-Rivet's statement aligns with the broader national discourse on police reform that emerged after Floyd's death, which ignited protests and calls to "defund the police." Her opponent, Republican candidate Junge, expressed disappointment over McDonald-Rivet's past comments, emphasizing that they reflect a serious stance rather than youthful indiscretion. In response, McDonald-Rivet's campaign manager highlighted her commitment to funding the police and countering far-left movements aimed at defunding law enforcement. The campaign asserts that McDonald-Rivet is dedicated to securing police funding and border security if elected to Congress. The stakes are high in Michigan's District 8, where McDonald-Rivet's victory could shift the balance in the state Senate, currently held by Democrats with a narrow majority. The Cook Political Report has identified this race, along with another in District 7, as a lean Democratic toss-up, indicating a competitive electoral landscape. Junge, who has self-funded his campaign with over $2 million, is optimistic about his chances in this newly drawn district, which he believes leans more conservative. After previous losses to incumbent Kildee, he sees this open seat as a promising opportunity to secure a win.