Carl Marlinga emerged victorious in a closely contested Democratic primary for Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, securing a spot to challenge incumbent Republican Rep. John James in the upcoming November election. Marlinga prevailed over fellow candidates Diane Young, Emily Busch, and Tiffany Tilley, as confirmed by a news agency report.
A former judge, Marlinga entered the race with the aim of a rematch against James, emphasizing his extensive background as a prosecutor and judge throughout his campaign. He highlighted his commitment to integrity and public service, stating, 'After decades of doing the right thing for the right reasons, sometimes facing challenges, but as long as you act with integrity, you usually come out on top. Most voters in the county would describe me in that manner.'
Tilley, who currently serves as the co-vice president on the State Board of Education, focused her platform on advocating for gun safety, drawing from personal experiences of losing family members to gun violence. She expressed her unique perspective and dedication, stating, 'No other candidate in this race possesses my background, experience, or passion that I bring to the table. I have been a relentless advocate for over two decades, a quality that sets me apart.'
Young, with a background in financial planning, centered her campaign on the necessity for Congress to address tax and welfare policy reforms while strengthening social security. She emphasized her understanding of the challenges faced by ordinary citizens, stating, 'I am deeply attuned to the issues affecting everyday people, from childcare to retirement planning, and the critical role of Social Security and Medicare in ensuring a secure future.'
Busch, who previously ran for the state House in 2022, also prioritized gun safety in her campaign, citing personal experiences related to gun violence incidents. She recounted the emotional impact of the Oxford High School shooting and the Michigan State University campus shooting, underscoring her motivation to run for Congress following these tragic events.
The ultimate winner of the Democratic primary will face James, who ran unopposed in the Republican primary, in the general election scheduled for November. James narrowly clinched victory in the 2022 race, securing a slim margin over Marlinga. Michigan’s 10th Congressional District currently holds a 'lean' Republican classification, according to a political report.
