At-Large Detroit City Councilmember Mary Waters Raises Questions About Trust in the Detroit’s 13th District Primary Electoral Process

Trust in the electoral process has always been a topic of concern in recent elections. It seems that with each passing vote, the question lingers: Where is the trustworthiness, and where do we find trust within this system designed to represent us? This sentiment was palpable for At-Large Detroit City Councilmember Mary Waters’ camp as Detroiters watched the results of the August 6 Democratic primary for Michigan’s 13th Congressional District unfold. With nearly 40% of precincts reporting, projections began to solidify the narrative that incumbent Shri Thanedar would secure victory over At-Large Detroit City Councilmember Waters and attorney Shakira Hawkins. As of 8 a.m. on August 7, Thanedar led the race with 54% of the votes (39,807), while Waters followed with 34% (25,029), and Hawkins trailed with 11% (8,251). But the story doesn’t end with the numbers; it extends into the deep concerns raised by the candidates and the broader implications for our community. “He (Thanedar) needs to do better for those that he represents and I’m just not sure if he can. I’m not sure if he has that within him,” said Waters at her election watch party. “I’m not sure if he has the ability to care enough...