Donavan McKinney

DMichigan State Representative, District 14

Defeated incumbent Rep. Shri Thanedar in the August 4, 2026 Democratic primary, 51.9%-48.1%.

Donavan McKinney is a Michigan state representative who defeated incumbent Rep. Shri Thanedar in the Democratic primary, campaigning on unions, taxing billionaires and environmental justice in a district with high rates of asthma and pollution.[2]

Basic profile — the most important sourced facts we found.

On the record — official actions

actionServes on the Michigan House Appropriations Committee, 2023-2026 sessions.[2]
actionDefeated incumbent U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar in the August 4, 2026 Democratic primary, 51.9% to 48.1%.[1]

Positions on the issues

SupportsRaise taxes on high earners or corporations
Supports raising taxes on billionaires and corporations.[3]
“Raising taxes on billionaires and corporations could fund crucial investments our community needs for housing, education, clean air & water, fair paying jobs and healthcare.”
SupportsFaster transition away from fossil fuels
Supports a Green New Deal-style transition to 100% clean and renewable energy.[3]
“A Green New Deal transitioning to 100% clean and renewable energy, would protect our planet's future and create millions of good-paying green union jobs in Michigan.”
SupportsExpand public health coverage
Supports Medicare for All.[3]
“I know our families cannot afford anything less than Medicare for All, which would ensure everyone in this country has healthcare.”
SupportsProtect legal access to abortion
Supports Medicare for All including coverage for abortion care.[3]
“Medicare for All would include coverage for dental, vision, mental health, reproductive health and abortion care.”

In their words — priorities

Raising taxes on billionaires and corporations to fund housing, education and healthcare investments.[3]
A 'Green New Deal' transition to 100% clean energy, citing lead and air pollution in the district.[3]
Medicare for All, including reproductive and abortion care coverage.[3]

Background

Born in Detroit; earned a bachelor's degree in public policy from the University of Michigan in 2014.[2]
Worked as political director of SEIU Healthcare Michigan, as a legislative director in the Michigan State House, and as national political director of Climate Power.[2]
Elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, where he serves on the House Appropriations Committee (2023-2026).[2]

Campaign money

Raised $1.4M · spent $1.2M · $143K cash on hand (through 2026-07-15) FEC filing ↗