Rep. Rashida Tlaib easily defeated two challengers in Tuesday’s Democratic primary in Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, securing the nomination for another term in Congress and reinforcing her standing as one of the Democratic Party’s most prominent progressive voices.

With roughly 31.6% of the expected vote counted Tuesday night, Tlaib was projected the winner after capturing a commanding 67.9% of the vote.

According to the preliminary results, Tlaib received 31,062 votes, well ahead of challenger Shanelle Jackson, who garnered 10,940 votes, or 23.9%. Byron Nolen finished third with 3,730 votes, representing 8.2%.

Although an estimated 99,000 ballots remained to be counted, the margin was large enough for news organizations to project Tlaib’s victory.

Tlaib, who has represented the Detroit-area district since 2019, remains one of the most recognizable members of the progressive “Squad” in Congress. Throughout her tenure, she has championed left-wing priorities including Medicare for All, environmental initiatives, criminal justice reform, and expanded social welfare programs.

She has also become one of Congress’ most outspoken critics of Israel, particularly following the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas war. Her repeated calls for a ceasefire, accusations against Israel over its military campaign in Gaza, and criticism of U.S. military aid have made her a polarizing figure both within the Democratic Party and nationally.

Unlike several other progressive lawmakers who have faced well-funded primary challenges in recent election cycles, Tlaib entered this year’s race as the clear favorite and maintained a substantial lead throughout the campaign.

With the Democratic nomination now effectively secured, Tlaib will move on to the November general election. Given the heavily Democratic makeup of Michigan’s 12th Congressional District, she is widely favored to win another term in the House of Representatives.

{Matzav.com}