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Detroit Economic Opportunity Director Launches Bid for Downriver State Senate Seat

September 30, 2025

Justin Onwenu, Detroit's entrepreneurship and economic opportunity director, has launched a campaign for Michigan's redrawn 1st Senate District, potentially facing a competitive Democratic primary. In his announcement, Onwenu criticized Michigan politics for failing to pass key legislation during last year's lame duck session when Democrats controlled all branches of government. With experience as an attorney, environmental justice organizer, and small business advocate, Onwenu aims to strengthen labor rights, address wage inequality, and implement statewide entrepreneurship programs similar to Detroit's Motor City Match.

Who is affected

  • Residents of Michigan's 1st Senate District (parts of Detroit, Ecorse, Lincoln Park, River Rouge, and Wyandotte)
  • Detroit entrepreneurs and small business owners
  • Workers seeking stronger labor rights and protection against wage theft
  • Black representation in Michigan's state Senate

What action is being taken

  • Justin Onwenu is launching a bid for state Senate in Michigan's redrawn 1st Senate District
  • Onwenu is building a coalition of supporters, securing endorsements from the Michigan Democratic Party Black Caucus, former U.S. Rep. Andy Levin, several Michigan state representatives, and numerous local officials
  • Onwenu is campaigning on strengthening collective bargaining rights, addressing wage theft, and implementing statewide small business support programs

Why it matters

  • Onwenu would be the youngest and only Black male in the Michigan state Senate if elected
  • The race addresses perceived failures during the recent Democratic-controlled lame duck session when key legislation for Detroit residents was blocked
  • Onwenu brings experience in environmental justice, economic development, and labor rights advocacy
  • The election represents an opportunity to continue work started by term-limited Senator Erika Geiss

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle