Candidate Profile: Shri Thanedar, U.S. House Detroit

DETROIT — U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar (D-MI) is running for re-election in Michigan's 13 U.S. House District against Republican Martell Bivings.

Michigan's 13 U.S. House District includes most of Detroit.

Here's how he filled out his candidate profile:

Your Name

Shri Thanedar

Town of Residence

Detroit

Position Sought

Unites States Congress

Party Affiliation

Democrat

Family

I am a proud husband to my wife, Shashi, and a father of two sons. My family has always been my greatest support and motivation in my work, and we share a deep commitment to serving our community. As an immigrant family, we understand the value of hard work, education, and perseverance, and those values shape the work I do in Congress every day.

Education

Master’s in Chemistry, Ph.D. in Chemistry, MBA.

Occupation

U.S. Congressman, Michigan's 13th Congressional District. Former entrepreneur and small business owner with over 25 years of experience.

Previous or current elected or appointed office

U.S. Congressman, Michigan's 13th Congressional District (2023–present).

Campaign website

Shriforcongress.com

The single most pressing issue facing our (board, district, etc.) is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.

The single most pressing issue facing our district is economic inequality. I am committed to bringing more federal funding to support local businesses, create jobs, and invest in infrastructure improvements. I'll continue advocating for higher wages, affordable housing, and expanded educational opportunities to uplift working families in our community.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

As a Congressman, I’ve consistently stood up for working families, fought for small businesses, and secured millions in community funding. My background as an immigrant and small business owner gives me a unique perspective on the challenges facing our community. Unlike others, I’ve already delivered results, from securing federal funds to improving public safety to ensuring our community’s needs are heard in Washington.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current officeholder failed the constituency?

N/A

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Healthcare access: Ensuring affordable healthcare and lowering prescription drug costs. Education: Investing in public schools and workforce training programs. Climate Change: Advocating for green energy solutions and environmental justice for our communities most affected by pollution. Criminal Justice Reform: Supporting measures to end mass incarceration and reform our criminal justice system to be more equitable.

If you gain this position, what accomplishment would define your term in office as a success?

Successfully securing federal funds for key infrastructure projects in the district, raising the minimum wage, and improving access to affordable housing would define my term as a success. Additionally, passing legislation that supports small businesses, creates jobs, and promotes workforce training would also be a key measure of success.

Why are you running for office?

I’m running to continue my work in Congress for Michigan’s 13th District because our community deserves a representative who will fight for working families, ensure economic growth, and stand up for justice and equality. My story is the story of the American dream, and I want to help others achieve the same opportunities I’ve had.

Explain your attitudes toward fiscal policy, government spending and how taxpayer dollars should be handled by your office?

I believe taxpayer dollars should be spent responsibly, with a focus on creating jobs, improving public services, and addressing critical issues like healthcare and education. We must ensure that federal funds are used to support working families, not special interests or corporate tax breaks. I advocate for targeted investments in infrastructure and community development while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

What would you do to help constituents struggling with the ever-increasing cost of living?

I’ll continue to fight for higher wages, expand access to affordable housing, and support policies that reduce healthcare and childcare costs. We also need to make essential goods and services more affordable by tackling inflation and supporting legislation that strengthens the social safety net.

Should state or federal funding be provided to help municipalities address the arrival of asylum seekers?

Yes, state and federal funding should be provided to ensure that municipalities have the resources to support asylum seekers. We must treat those fleeing violence and persecution with dignity, and municipalities need the infrastructure and support to integrate asylum seekers effectively.

Is the federal government doing enough to secure the borders? Why or why not?

While border security is important, the federal government should focus on comprehensive immigration reform, which includes strengthening border security and providing a clear, humane path to citizenship for those already here. We need balanced solutions that secure our borders while upholding the values of fairness and humanity.

Should the US stop funding Israel and support a ceasefire in Gaza?

I support efforts to protect human rights and promote peace in the region. While the U.S. should remain an ally of Israel, we must also advocate for a two-state solution and encourage diplomacy that ensures the safety and dignity of both Israelis and Palestinians. I believe the U.S. should push for a ceasefire and support humanitarian aid for those affected by the conflict.

Should the U.S. continue providing aid to Ukraine?

Yes, the U.S. should continue providing aid to Ukraine to support its sovereignty and independence in the face of Russian aggression. It is crucial to defend democracy and international law, and providing aid to Ukraine is an important part of that effort.

Should candidates be disqualified from holding office if they faced misdemeanor charges related to Jan. 6, 2021?

No answer

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I want voters to know that I’m committed to fighting for our community’s needs and aspirations. As an immigrant who built a successful business and overcame challenges, I understand the struggles many face. I’ve spent my time in Congress working to ensure that everyone has access to quality education, healthcare, and good-paying jobs. I believe in fairness, justice, and providing opportunities for all, regardless of background. My focus is always on how I can improve the lives of the people I serve, and I’m committed to continuing this work with integrity and transparency.