Adam Hollier to Drop Congressional Bid, Consider Run for Secretary of State

September 6, 2025

Former State Senator Adam Hollier (D-Detroit) is preparing to withdraw from Michigan's 13th District U.S. House race and is considering a run for Secretary of State instead, according to sources with direct knowledge of his plans. Hollier, who previously attempted to challenge incumbent Rep. Shri Thanedar but was disqualified due to fraudulent petition signatures, has been encouraged by Michigan leaders concerned about threats to democracy.

Who is affected

Former State Senator Adam Hollier
State Rep. Donavan McKinney (who may receive Hollier's endorsement)
Incumbent U.S. Representative Shri Thanedar
Michigan voters in the 13th District
Democratic voters and party officials who will participate in the nominating convention
Current Deputy Secretary of State Aghogho Edevbie and Ingham County Clerk Barb Bynum (both running for Secretary of State)
Outgoing Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson

What action is being taken

Hollier is preparing to withdraw from the U.S. House race in Michigan's 13th District
Hollier is considering running for Secretary of State
Michigan leaders are reaching out to Hollier encouraging him to run for Secretary of State
Hollier has been actively fundraising, having raised nearly $300,000 in 11 weeks for his congressional campaign

Why it matters

Hollier's potential withdrawal and endorsement could significantly impact the Democratic primary race for Michigan's 13th District
The race involves representation for Detroit, which had a 70-year streak of consecutive Black lawmakers before Thanedar became Michigan's first Indian-American member of Congress
The Secretary of State position is crucial for election administration amid concerns about democracy and election security
Campaign finance differences are substantial among candidates, with Thanedar reporting $7.8 million on hand (mostly self-funded) compared to Hollier's $358,300 and McKinney's $216,678

What's next

Hollier stated he will "have more to say in the coming weeks" about his decision
If Hollier runs for Secretary of State, he would need to be selected by Democrats during the state party's nominating convention next year
Democratic primary contests will continue developing for both the 13th District congressional seat and the Secretary of State position

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle