313FILES - User contributions [en]

Scott Benson

2025-08-15T15:07:13Z

Liability7973: /* FBI Investigation */

[[File:Scott Benson.jpg|thumb|"[https://flickr.com/photos/detroitcitygov/54688151547/ 243A0895-Enhanced-NR]" from [https://flickr.com/photos/detroitcitygov/ City of Detroit Gov.], Licensed under the [https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/deed.en Public Domain Mark 1.0] (Public Domain) license.]]

== Drunk Driving Conviction ==
'''Summary:''' In June 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson was arrested after police found him unconscious in his city-owned car with an open bottle of bourbon. His blood alcohol level was 0.24 percent, three times the legal limit. Despite initially claiming he had only one sip of vodka, Benson later pleaded guilty to drunken driving. In January 2015, Judge Bill Richards sentenced him to seven days in jail, $2,000 in fines, two years probation, and counseling, noting this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense. Benson publicly apologized and promised to make necessary lifestyle changes to continue serving his district effectively.

=== Details ===
On June 29, 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson was arrested in Southfield, Michigan. Police found Benson unconscious behind the wheel of his city-owned 2008 Crown Victoria near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and the Southfield Freeway.<ref name=":0">"Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson arrested in Southfield," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), June 30, 2014, myFOXDetroit.com Staff.</ref> A witness had called 911 reporting, "I don't know if there's something wrong with this guy in this car at Southfield and 8 Mile at the service drive. It's not moving and neither is the person inside."<ref name=":1">"Detroit councilman Scott Benson receives jail sentence for DUI," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), January 22, 2015.</ref>

At the time of his arrest, Benson was found with an open bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon in the vehicle. Although he initially told Southfield police he had only consumed "one sip" of vodka, a blood test revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.24 percent, three times Michigan's legal limit for driving.<ref name=":1" /> He was placed under arrest for operating while impaired and released on a $500 bond.<ref name=":0" />

On October 2014, Benson pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of drunken driving after initially being charged with "super drunk driving."<ref name=":1" /> On January 22, 2015, Benson appeared before Judge Bill Richards in Southfield district court for sentencing. During the proceedings, Judge Richards noted that this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense, though details of the previous incident were not provided.<ref name=":1" />

Benson read a prepared statement in court: "I'd like to apologize to this court, the residents of Southfield and Detroit, my colleagues and family for my egregious behavior of June 2014."<ref name=":1" /> Judge Richards sentenced Benson to seven days in the Oakland County Jail (half the time recommended by court officials), $2,000 in fines and costs, two years of probation, continued substance abuse counseling, and meetings with victims of drunk driving tragedies. Benson chose to begin serving his jail sentence on March 13, 2015.<ref name=":1" />

Following the sentencing, Benson issued a longer statement expressing remorse and indicating he had "made the appropriate and necessary lifestyle changes" while pledging to "continue to labor hard for my district and the citizens of Detroit without distraction."<ref name=":1" />

A review of Benson's driving record by Fox 2 revealed several suspensions for unpaid fees dating back to 2011, minor traffic infractions, and a hold on his license for unpaid parking tickets in Detroit.<ref name=":0" />

== The FCA Land Swap Vote and Its Aftermath ==

=== Initial Support for the Land Deal ===
In 2019, Scott Benson voted in favor of the controversial land swap agreement that facilitated the expansion of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA, now Stellantis) plant on Detroit's east side.<ref name="brooker2024">Brooker, Jena. "Moroun-owned firm built east side concrete plant without permit." BridgeDetroit, May 17, 2024.</ref> By a 6-3 vote, City Council approved a transfer of $43.5 million in cash plus 200 acres of city-owned land throughout Detroit in exchange for an 82.2-acre parking lot owned by the [[Moroun family]]'s [[Crown Enterprises]].<ref name="allnutt2021">Allnutt, Brian. "How an east side land deal impacted a dispute over Moroun-owned land in southwest Detroit." Planet Detroit, March 1, 2021.</ref> Dozens of the properties received by the Morouns are in Cadillac Heights— a neighborhood within Benson's District 3.<ref name="allnutt2021" />

At the time, FCA was leasing the parking lot from the Morouns and using it for parking. After the complex land swap was completed and the lot transferred to FCA, the property continues to serve the same function it had before— as a parking lot.<ref name="handbuilt2021">Guest. "A Common-Sense Rezoning Hits Billionaire Resistance." The Handbuilt City, February 10, 2021.</ref>

The land swap vote occurred against a backdrop of significant political contributions from Moroun-backed entities. Of the approximately $200,000 that various Moroun-backed political action committees spent on candidates during the 2017 city council election, Benson received $1,919 from the [[Turn Around Wayne County|Turn Around Wayne County Super PAC]], which was financially supported by the Moroun family.<ref name="allnutt2021" /> The PAC also donated over $100,000 to "[[Save Detroit Jobs]]" in 2016, which subsequently paid Scott Benson's chief of staff [[Carol Banks]] $11,751 in wages and reimbursements through nearly 70 separate payments, including one installment of $6,486.<ref name="deadline-detroit-corruption2">"Detroit council corruption probe involves nonprofit that helped kill grass roots initiative". Deadline Detroit.</ref> Save Detroit Jobs operated from the same address as Benson's council office and issued press releases quoting Benson.

=== Consequences in Cadillac Heights ===
The land acquired by Crown Enterprises through the swap would later become the source of significant controversy in Benson's own district. In 2022, Crown began construction of a concrete mixing plant on parcels obtained through the FCA deal, building the facility without proper permits before receiving a stop work notice from the city's [[Buildings, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED)]].<ref name="brooker2024" />

The plant's operation has created what residents describe as harmful dust, noise, and increased truck traffic in the predominantly Black neighborhood.<ref name="barrett2025">Barrett, Malachi. "East side neighbors urge city to shut down Moroun-owned concrete plant." BridgeDetroit, April 9, 2025.</ref> Simultaneously, Crown Enterprises engaged in a campaign to pressure longtime residents to sell their homes, offering below-market prices and short deadlines, effectively displacing families who had lived in the area for decades.<ref name="brooker2022">Brooker, Jena. "One of Detroit's most powerful families is displacing east side residents." Planet Detroit, September 21, 2022.</ref>

=== Shifting Explanations ===
When confronted about the concrete plant's impacts on his constituents in 2024, Benson characterized the land swap as an administrative decision by the mayor's office rather than a legislative choice requiring council approval, stating: "This was a city of Detroit deal cut on the 11th floor," referring to the mayor's office.<ref name="barrett2025" />

However, when pressed further about his role in the transaction, Benson ultimately acknowledged and defended his support for the land swap. In a 2024 interview, he stated: "I still support and stand in front of my vote to bring jobs and development and investment to the City of Detroit and focus on our residents."<ref name="brooker2024" />

Benson maintained that he "couldn't have anticipated the situation today in Cadillac Heights" and argued that the deal was necessary for economic development.<ref name="brooker2024" /> He emphasized the job creation aspect of the Stellantis plant, despite the company's subsequent layoffs and workforce reductions at the facility.<ref name="brooker2024" />

== Federal Corruption Investigation ==
Benson became a focus of federal investigators due to his connections to the city's towing industry. Benson sits on the council's Public Health and Safety Committee, which handles towing oversight, and had previously aided towing industry interests.<ref name="deadline-dark-money">Violet Ikonomova, "Duggan-tied dark money groups push four Detroit City Council candidates," <nowiki>''</nowiki>Deadline Detroit<nowiki>''</nowiki>, October 8, 2021</ref>

In July 2021, Benson prevented a proposed towing ordinance from advancing at a meeting of the Public Health and Safety Committee, which he chairs. The measure, introduced by Council President [[Brenda Jones]], would have created city-level towing regulations and curbed predatory practices such as refusing to release a vehicle whose owner shows up before it's hauled away.<ref name="deadline-towing">Violet Ikonomova, "Detroit council members raided by FBI advocated for towing companies," <nowiki>''Deadline Detroit''</nowiki>, August 27, 2021</ref> Benson expressed concern about possible misdemeanors for violators of the new rules, saying "The big issue is, am I going to wind up in handcuffs for violating this ordinance?" speaking from the perspective of a tow operator.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

Benson had received between $500-$2,000 in direct campaign contributions from towing company owners and affiliates, including contributions from [[Gasper Fiore]] and/or his daughter [[Jennifer Fiore|Jennifer]].<ref name="deadline-towing" /> Fiore was a former towing magnate who had previously served prison time for bribing a Macomb County official.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

=== FBI Raids ===
On August 25, 2021, just weeks after Benson prevented a proposed towing ordinance from advancing, FBI agents executed search warrants at Benson's home, that of fellow Detroit City Council member [[Janeé Ayers]], as well as at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center downtown.<ref name="wdet-fbi">Eli Newman, "Homes of Ayers and Benson Searched by FBI, Expanding Inquiry into Detroit City Council Corruption," <nowiki>''WDET''</nowiki>, August 25, 2021</ref><ref name="wxyz-fbi">"FBI raids Detroit city hall, homes of council members in corruption investigation," <nowiki>''WXYZ''</nowiki>, August 25, 2021</ref> Federal officials also searched Benson's Harper Woods home and carried out multiple boxes from the offices where City Council conducts its official business.<ref name="wdet-fbi" />

The searches were part of what federal investigators described as an ongoing public corruption investigation. "The citizens of Detroit have a right to a city government that's free of corruption," said FBI Special Agent Tim Waters, who led the Detroit field office.<ref name="wxyz-fbi" /> The probe was part of the government's wider investigation dubbed "Operation Northern Hook," an investigation of corruption within government and the Detroit Police Department related to the towing industry.<ref name="freep-closed">Dana Afana, "Feds close public corruption investigation of Scott Benson, Janeé Ayers," <nowiki>''Detroit Free Press''</nowiki>, January 17, 2025</ref> The broader federal corruption probe had already resulted in charges against Councilman [[André Spivey]], who was charged with conspiracy to commit bribery for allegedly accepting more than $35,000 in bribes.<ref name="wdet-fbi" /> Spivey was cooperating with the FBI by the time of the July 2021 towing committee meeting, his lawyer has said.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

Items seized during the FBI raids included towing documents, an envelope titled "Troy's Towing," 12 thumb drives with labels including "Detroit towing," "Detroit Blight Removal," "Crossroads," "Touring," and "DEGC" for the [[Detroit Economic Growth Corporation]], as well as copies of deposited checks and financial documents.<ref name="fox2-seizure">David Komer, "FBI<nowiki>'s seized items from Detroit councilmembers include towing documents, thumb drives," ''FOX 2''</nowiki>, September 14, 2021</ref>

=== Investigation Conclusion ===
In January 2025, federal prosecutors closed the investigation without filing criminal charges against Benson, Ayers, or their chiefs of staff. Benson was notified of the decision by the U.S. Attorney [[Dawn Ison]]'s office in Detroit.<ref name="deadline-no-charges">Allan Lengel, "Years After FBI Raided 2 Detroit Council Members<nowiki>' Homes, No Charges Will Be Filed," ''Deadline Detroit''</nowiki>, January 16, 2025</ref><ref name="freep-closed" />

"I am happy that the government has confirmed that what I said over three years ago was accurate: Scott Benson did nothing wrong," Benson's attorney Steve Fishman said in an email.<ref name="freep-closed" />

== The File ==
<references />

Turn Around Wayne County

2025-08-15T15:04:41Z

Liability7973: Created page with "Turn Around Wayne County is a 527 political organization that operated as a key vehicle for the powerful Moroun transportation family to influence Detroit and Wayne County elections, most notably spending over $53,000 in Detroit's 2017 City Council races while using delayed disclosure tactics to hide funding sources from voters until months after elections concluded.<ref name="propublica5272">"Turn Around Wayne County — 527 Explorer". ProPublica.</ref><ref name="michig..."

Turn Around Wayne County is a 527 political organization that operated as a key vehicle for the powerful Moroun transportation family to influence Detroit and Wayne County elections, most notably spending over $53,000 in Detroit's 2017 City Council races while using delayed disclosure tactics to hide funding sources from voters until months after elections concluded.<ref name="propublica5272">"Turn Around Wayne County — 527 Explorer". ProPublica.</ref><ref name="michigan-radio-moroun2">"Morouns donated nearly $200,000 under the radar in Detroit city council elections". Michigan Radio. June 28, 2018.</ref>

The organization represents a political influence operation that successfully elected business-friendly candidates while exploiting Michigan's campaign finance disclosure loopholes. Its activities exemplify how corporate interests can shape local politics through strategic late-stage spending and coordination with multiple political entities, raising significant transparency concerns among campaign finance watchdogs.

== Moroun family political machine drives Detroit influence ==
Turn Around Wayne County PAC was established as a 527 tax-exempt political organization, filing six Form 990s with the IRS as a "qualified state or local political organization" operating in Michigan.<ref name="propublica5272" /> The PAC operates without a formal public mission statement, but its activities demonstrate the organization serves as one component of the [[Moroun family]]'s extensive political network, centered around [[Central Transport LLC]], [[Crown Enterprises]], and the [[Detroit International Bridge Company]].

Turn Around Wayne County PAC was primarily funded by Central Transport LLC, the Moroun family's trucking company, with additional support from corporate donors including a $50,000 contribution from [[Powering the Economy PAC]], which is connected to the [[Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce]].<ref name="littlesis-powering-economy2">"Donation: Powering the Economy PAC, Turn Around Wayne County". LittleSis.</ref> The organization avoided significant individual donor activity, instead relying on corporate funding channels.

[[Matthew Moroun]], heir to the family's estimated $1.7 billion transportation empire, serves as the PAC's primary funding source through Central Transport LLC.<ref name="crains-matthew-moroun2">"MATTHEW MOROUN". Crain's Detroit Business.</ref> The Moroun family's extensive property holdings in southwest Detroit neighborhoods, including Corktown, Mexicantown, Delray, and Hubbard-Richard, create ongoing policy interests around zoning, development, and infrastructure projects that affect their transportation, concrete, and bridge operations.

The late [[Manuel "Matty" Moroun]] built this business empire, and his son has continued the family's tradition of wielding significant political influence across Detroit and Wayne County.<ref name="detroit-news-moroun-obit2">"Manuel 'Matty' Moroun, owner of Ambassador Bridge, dead at 93". The Detroit News. April 12, 2024.</ref> The PAC focuses on supporting business-friendly candidates who align with the Moroun family's economic interests, particularly those affecting transportation, concrete, development, and bridge operations in the Detroit metropolitan area.

== Strategic funding and delayed disclosure tactics ==
During the 2017 Detroit City Council elections, the PAC spent $53,412 total: $51,493 supporting [[Roy McCalister Jr.]] in District 2 and $1,919 supporting [[Scott Benson]] in District 3. Both candidates won their races.<ref name="deadline-detroit-dark-money2">"Duggan-tied dark money groups push four Detroit City Council candidates". Deadline Detroit.</ref> This spending was part of a broader $200,000 Moroun family political operation across multiple PACs, making them the largest single spender in those elections.<ref name="michigan-radio-moroun2" />

The PAC donated over $100,000 to "[[Save Detroit Jobs]]" in 2016, which subsequently paid [[Scott Benson]]'s chief of staff [[Carol Banks]] $11,751 in wages and reimbursements through nearly 70 separate payments, including one installment of $6,486.<ref name="deadline-detroit-corruption2">"Detroit council corruption probe involves nonprofit that helped kill grass roots initiative". Deadline Detroit.</ref> Save Detroit Jobs operated from the same address as Benson's council office and issued press releases quoting Benson.

The PAC employed a controversial delayed disclosure strategy, making expenditures on election day or immediately before to avoid pre-election disclosure requirements. While federal law mandates 24-48 hour reporting for federal races, Michigan state law lacked similar requirements for local elections at the time. This legal loophole allowed the PAC to influence elections while keeping spending secret from voters until January 31, 2018 - nearly three months after the November 7, 2017 elections.<ref name="michigan-radio-moroun2" />

Craig Mauger of the [[Michigan Campaign Finance Network]] called this unprecedented in Michigan local elections, though similar strategies had been employed in federal races and other states.<ref name="wdet-moroun-spending2">"Moroun Family Was Biggest Spender in Detroit City Council Elections [TRANSCRIPT and VIDEO]". WDET 101.9 FM. July 13, 2018.</ref>

== Business and political network influence ==
Turn Around Wayne County PAC operates within a sophisticated network of Detroit-area business and political leaders that demonstrates cross-partisan coordination in municipal influence campaigns.

=== Shared Funding through Save Detroit Jobs nonprofit ===
The most significant network connection involves the shared funding of "Save Detroit Jobs." Save Detroit Jobs raised more than $100,000 in 2016 from multiple sources including Turn Around Wayne County PAC, [[Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan]], and the [[Schostak Family PAC]].<ref name="deadline-detroit-messy">"The messy intersection of dark money and Detroit politics". Deadline Detroit.</ref>

This coordination demonstrates how Republican donors collaborate through shared funding vehicles to influence Detroit politics.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, one of the state's largest corporate political contributors, was identified as a donor to Save Detroit Jobs PAC, which shared funding sources with Turn Around Wayne County.<ref name="crains-blue-cross2">"Blue Cross CEO Dan Loepp, company PAC push Duggan re-election". Crain's Detroit Business.</ref> The insurance giant's leadership, including former CEO [[Dan Loepp]], has been heavily involved in Detroit politics and contributed $116,198 to Mayor [[Mike Duggan]]'s re-election campaign.

The Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce, led by President Sandy K. Baruah (former U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator), operated the [[Powering the Economy PAC]] that contributed $50,000 to Turn Around Wayne County.<ref name="detroit-chamber-baruah2">"Sandy K. Baruah Bio". Detroit Regional Chamber.</ref> The Chamber represents 11 Fortune 500 companies and 5.4 million residents, hosting the influential Mackinac Policy Conference and advocating for regional business interests.

[[Robert "Bobby" Schostak]], former Michigan Republican Party Chairman (2011-2015) and head of the Schostak family real estate empire, operates the Schostak Family PAC, which has donated over $700,000 to political candidates since 2008 including contributions to "Save Detroit Jobs."<ref name="bridge-mi-schostak2">"Michigan lawmakers award $10M for project benefitting former GOP chair". Bridge Michigan.</ref><ref name="deadline-detroit-messy" />

The PAC network has maintained close relationships with key political figures including Wayne County Executive [[Warren Evans]] and Detroit Mayor [[Mike Duggan]]. Duggan's "[[Turnaround Detroit]]" super PAC received $100,000 from Central Transport.<ref name="detroit-news-super-pac2">"Pro-Duggan super PAC biggest spender in Michigan". The Detroit News. November 15, 2017.</ref>

== Policy impact and electoral success ==
Turn Around Wayne County PAC achieved a 100% success rate for its directly supported candidates in 2017.<ref name="wdet-moroun-spending2" /> The broader Moroun political network achieved a 67% success rate across all supported candidates that cycle. The PAC specifically targeted candidates who supported pro-business development policies and opposed community benefits ordinances that would require concessions from developers. The organization's influence extends beyond electoral politics into policy outcomes. Scott Benson, who received PAC support, later proposed zoning changes favorable to Moroun properties in Southwest Detroit.<ref name="planet-detroit-zoning2">"How an east side land deal impacted a zoning dispute on Detroit's southwest side". Planet Detroit. February 25, 2021.</ref> The PAC network has consistently opposed grassroots community benefits ordinances.<ref name="deadline-detroit-corruption2" />

== The File ==
<references />

Scott Benson

2025-08-15T13:46:15Z

Liability7973: /* FBI Investigation */

[[File:Scott Benson.jpg|thumb|"[https://flickr.com/photos/detroitcitygov/54688151547/ 243A0895-Enhanced-NR]" from [https://flickr.com/photos/detroitcitygov/ City of Detroit Gov.], Licensed under the [https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/deed.en Public Domain Mark 1.0] (Public Domain) license.]]

== Drunk Driving Conviction ==
'''Summary:''' In June 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson was arrested after police found him unconscious in his city-owned car with an open bottle of bourbon. His blood alcohol level was 0.24 percent, three times the legal limit. Despite initially claiming he had only one sip of vodka, Benson later pleaded guilty to drunken driving. In January 2015, Judge Bill Richards sentenced him to seven days in jail, $2,000 in fines, two years probation, and counseling, noting this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense. Benson publicly apologized and promised to make necessary lifestyle changes to continue serving his district effectively.

=== Details ===
On June 29, 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson was arrested in Southfield, Michigan. Police found Benson unconscious behind the wheel of his city-owned 2008 Crown Victoria near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and the Southfield Freeway.<ref name=":0">"Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson arrested in Southfield," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), June 30, 2014, myFOXDetroit.com Staff.</ref> A witness had called 911 reporting, "I don't know if there's something wrong with this guy in this car at Southfield and 8 Mile at the service drive. It's not moving and neither is the person inside."<ref name=":1">"Detroit councilman Scott Benson receives jail sentence for DUI," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), January 22, 2015.</ref>

At the time of his arrest, Benson was found with an open bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon in the vehicle. Although he initially told Southfield police he had only consumed "one sip" of vodka, a blood test revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.24 percent, three times Michigan's legal limit for driving.<ref name=":1" /> He was placed under arrest for operating while impaired and released on a $500 bond.<ref name=":0" />

On October 2014, Benson pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of drunken driving after initially being charged with "super drunk driving."<ref name=":1" /> On January 22, 2015, Benson appeared before Judge Bill Richards in Southfield district court for sentencing. During the proceedings, Judge Richards noted that this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense, though details of the previous incident were not provided.<ref name=":1" />

Benson read a prepared statement in court: "I'd like to apologize to this court, the residents of Southfield and Detroit, my colleagues and family for my egregious behavior of June 2014."<ref name=":1" /> Judge Richards sentenced Benson to seven days in the Oakland County Jail (half the time recommended by court officials), $2,000 in fines and costs, two years of probation, continued substance abuse counseling, and meetings with victims of drunk driving tragedies. Benson chose to begin serving his jail sentence on March 13, 2015.<ref name=":1" />

Following the sentencing, Benson issued a longer statement expressing remorse and indicating he had "made the appropriate and necessary lifestyle changes" while pledging to "continue to labor hard for my district and the citizens of Detroit without distraction."<ref name=":1" />

A review of Benson's driving record by Fox 2 revealed several suspensions for unpaid fees dating back to 2011, minor traffic infractions, and a hold on his license for unpaid parking tickets in Detroit.<ref name=":0" />

== The FCA Land Swap Vote and Its Aftermath ==

=== Initial Support for the Land Deal ===
In 2019, Scott Benson voted in favor of the controversial land swap agreement that facilitated the expansion of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA, now Stellantis) plant on Detroit's east side.<ref name="brooker2024">Brooker, Jena. "Moroun-owned firm built east side concrete plant without permit." BridgeDetroit, May 17, 2024.</ref> By a 6-3 vote, City Council approved a transfer of $43.5 million in cash plus 200 acres of city-owned land throughout Detroit in exchange for an 82.2-acre parking lot owned by the [[Moroun family]]'s [[Crown Enterprises]].<ref name="allnutt2021">Allnutt, Brian. "How an east side land deal impacted a dispute over Moroun-owned land in southwest Detroit." Planet Detroit, March 1, 2021.</ref> Dozens of the properties received by the Morouns are in Cadillac Heights— a neighborhood within Benson's District 3.<ref name="allnutt2021" />

At the time, FCA was leasing the parking lot from the Morouns and using it for parking. After the complex land swap was completed and the lot transferred to FCA, the property continues to serve the same function it had before— as a parking lot.<ref name="handbuilt2021">Guest. "A Common-Sense Rezoning Hits Billionaire Resistance." The Handbuilt City, February 10, 2021.</ref>

The land swap vote occurred against a backdrop of significant political contributions from Moroun-backed entities. Of the approximately $200,000 that various Moroun-backed political action committees spent on candidates during the 2017 city council election, Benson received $1,919 from the [[Turn Around Wayne County|Turn Around Wayne County Super PAC]], which was financially supported by the Moroun family.<ref name="allnutt2021" />

=== Consequences in Cadillac Heights ===
The land acquired by Crown Enterprises through the swap would later become the source of significant controversy in Benson's own district. In 2022, Crown began construction of a concrete mixing plant on parcels obtained through the FCA deal, building the facility without proper permits before receiving a stop work notice from the city's [[Buildings, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED)]].<ref name="brooker2024" />

The plant's operation has created what residents describe as harmful dust, noise, and increased truck traffic in the predominantly Black neighborhood.<ref name="barrett2025">Barrett, Malachi. "East side neighbors urge city to shut down Moroun-owned concrete plant." BridgeDetroit, April 9, 2025.</ref> Simultaneously, Crown Enterprises engaged in a campaign to pressure longtime residents to sell their homes, offering below-market prices and short deadlines, effectively displacing families who had lived in the area for decades.<ref name="brooker2022">Brooker, Jena. "One of Detroit's most powerful families is displacing east side residents." Planet Detroit, September 21, 2022.</ref>

=== Shifting Explanations ===
When confronted about the concrete plant's impacts on his constituents in 2024, Benson characterized the land swap as an administrative decision by the mayor's office rather than a legislative choice requiring council approval, stating: "This was a city of Detroit deal cut on the 11th floor," referring to the mayor's office.<ref name="barrett2025" />

However, when pressed further about his role in the transaction, Benson ultimately acknowledged and defended his support for the land swap. In a 2024 interview, he stated: "I still support and stand in front of my vote to bring jobs and development and investment to the City of Detroit and focus on our residents."<ref name="brooker2024" />

Benson maintained that he "couldn't have anticipated the situation today in Cadillac Heights" and argued that the deal was necessary for economic development.<ref name="brooker2024" /> He emphasized the job creation aspect of the Stellantis plant, despite the company's subsequent layoffs and workforce reductions at the facility.<ref name="brooker2024" />

== FBI Investigation ==
Benson became a focus of federal investigators due to his connections to the city's towing industry. Benson sits on the council's Public Health and Safety Committee, which handles towing oversight, and had previously aided towing industry interests.<ref name="deadline-dark-money">Violet Ikonomova, "Duggan-tied dark money groups push four Detroit City Council candidates," <nowiki>''</nowiki>Deadline Detroit<nowiki>''</nowiki>, October 8, 2021</ref>

In July 2021, Benson prevented a proposed towing ordinance from advancing at a meeting of the Public Health and Safety Committee, which he chairs. The measure, introduced by Council President [[Brenda Jones]], would have created city-level towing regulations and curbed predatory practices such as refusing to release a vehicle whose owner shows up before it's hauled away.<ref name="deadline-towing">Violet Ikonomova, "Detroit council members raided by FBI advocated for towing companies," <nowiki>''Deadline Detroit''</nowiki>, August 27, 2021</ref> Benson expressed concern about possible misdemeanors for violators of the new rules, saying "The big issue is, am I going to wind up in handcuffs for violating this ordinance?" speaking from the perspective of a tow operator.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

Benson had received between $500-$2,000 in direct campaign contributions from towing company owners and affiliates, including contributions from [[Gasper Fiore]] and/or his daughter [[Jennifer Fiore|Jennifer]].<ref name="deadline-towing" /> Fiore was a former towing magnate who had previously served prison time for bribing a Macomb County official.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

=== Federal Raids and Investigation ===
On August 25, 2021, just weeks after Benson prevented a proposed towing ordinance from advancing, FBI agents executed search warrants at Benson's home, that of fellow Detroit City Council member [[Janeé Ayers]], as well as at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center downtown.<ref name="wdet-fbi">Eli Newman, "Homes of Ayers and Benson Searched by FBI, Expanding Inquiry into Detroit City Council Corruption," <nowiki>''WDET''</nowiki>, August 25, 2021</ref><ref name="wxyz-fbi">"FBI raids Detroit city hall, homes of council members in corruption investigation," <nowiki>''WXYZ''</nowiki>, August 25, 2021</ref> Federal officials also searched Benson's Harper Woods home and carried out multiple boxes from the offices where City Council conducts its official business.<ref name="wdet-fbi" />

The searches were part of what federal investigators described as an ongoing public corruption investigation. "The citizens of Detroit have a right to a city government that's free of corruption," said FBI Special Agent Tim Waters, who led the Detroit field office.<ref name="wxyz-fbi" /> The probe was part of the government's wider investigation dubbed "Operation Northern Hook," an investigation of corruption within government and the Detroit Police Department related to the towing industry.<ref name="freep-closed">Dana Afana, "Feds close public corruption investigation of Scott Benson, Janeé Ayers," <nowiki>''Detroit Free Press''</nowiki>, January 17, 2025</ref> The broader federal corruption probe had already resulted in charges against Councilman [[André Spivey]], who was charged with conspiracy to commit bribery for allegedly accepting more than $35,000 in bribes.<ref name="wdet-fbi" /> Spivey was cooperating with the FBI by the time of the July 2021 towing committee meeting, his lawyer has said.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

Items seized during the FBI raids included towing documents, an envelope titled "Troy's Towing," 12 thumb drives with labels including "Detroit towing," "Detroit Blight Removal," "Crossroads," "Touring," and "DEGC" for the [[Detroit Economic Growth Corporation]], as well as copies of deposited checks and financial documents.<ref name="fox2-seizure">David Komer, "FBI<nowiki>'s seized items from Detroit councilmembers include towing documents, thumb drives," ''FOX 2''</nowiki>, September 14, 2021</ref>

=== Investigation Conclusion ===
In January 2025, federal prosecutors closed the investigation without filing criminal charges against Benson, Ayers, or their chiefs of staff. Benson was notified of the decision by the U.S. Attorney [[Dawn Ison]]'s office in Detroit.<ref name="deadline-no-charges">Allan Lengel, "Years After FBI Raided 2 Detroit Council Members<nowiki>' Homes, No Charges Will Be Filed," ''Deadline Detroit''</nowiki>, January 16, 2025</ref><ref name="freep-closed" />

"I am happy that the government has confirmed that what I said over three years ago was accurate: Scott Benson did nothing wrong," Benson's attorney Steve Fishman said in an email.<ref name="freep-closed" />

== The File ==
<references />

Scott Benson

2025-08-15T13:38:15Z

Liability7973:

[[File:Scott Benson.jpg|thumb|"[https://flickr.com/photos/detroitcitygov/54688151547/ 243A0895-Enhanced-NR]" from [https://flickr.com/photos/detroitcitygov/ City of Detroit Gov.], Licensed under the [https://creativecommons.org/publicdomain/mark/1.0/deed.en Public Domain Mark 1.0] (Public Domain) license.]]

== Drunk Driving Conviction ==
'''Summary:''' In June 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson was arrested after police found him unconscious in his city-owned car with an open bottle of bourbon. His blood alcohol level was 0.24 percent, three times the legal limit. Despite initially claiming he had only one sip of vodka, Benson later pleaded guilty to drunken driving. In January 2015, Judge Bill Richards sentenced him to seven days in jail, $2,000 in fines, two years probation, and counseling, noting this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense. Benson publicly apologized and promised to make necessary lifestyle changes to continue serving his district effectively.

=== Details ===
On June 29, 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson, who represented District 3, was arrested in Southfield, Michigan. Police found Benson unconscious behind the wheel of his city-owned 2008 Crown Victoria near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and the Southfield Freeway.<ref name=":0">"Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson arrested in Southfield," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), June 30, 2014, myFOXDetroit.com Staff.</ref> A witness had called 911 reporting, "I don't know if there's something wrong with this guy in this car at Southfield and 8 Mile at the service drive. It's not moving and neither is the person inside."<ref name=":1">"Detroit councilman Scott Benson receives jail sentence for DUI," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), January 22, 2015.</ref>

At the time of his arrest, Benson was found with an open bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon in the vehicle. Although he initially told Southfield police he had only consumed "one sip" of vodka, a blood test revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.24 percent, three times Michigan's legal limit for driving.<ref name=":1" /> He was placed under arrest for operating while impaired and released on a $500 bond.<ref name=":0" />

On October 2014, Benson pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of drunken driving after initially being charged with "super drunk driving."<ref name=":1" /> On January 22, 2015, Benson appeared before Judge Bill Richards in Southfield district court for sentencing. During the proceedings, Judge Richards noted that this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense, though details of the previous incident were not provided.<ref name=":1" />

Benson read a prepared statement in court: "I'd like to apologize to this court, the residents of Southfield and Detroit, my colleagues and family for my egregious behavior of June 2014."<ref name=":1" /> Judge Richards sentenced Benson to seven days in the Oakland County Jail (half the time recommended by court officials), $2,000 in fines and costs, two years of probation, continued substance abuse counseling, and meetings with victims of drunk driving tragedies. Benson chose to begin serving his jail sentence on March 13, 2015.<ref name=":1" />

Following the sentencing, Benson issued a longer statement expressing remorse and indicating he had "made the appropriate and necessary lifestyle changes" while pledging to "continue to labor hard for my district and the citizens of Detroit without distraction."<ref name=":1" />

A review of Benson's driving record by Fox 2 revealed several suspensions for unpaid fees dating back to 2011, minor traffic infractions, and a hold on his license for unpaid parking tickets in Detroit.<ref name=":0" />

== The FCA Land Swap Vote and Its Aftermath ==

=== Initial Support for the Land Deal ===
In 2019, Scott Benson voted in favor of the controversial land swap agreement that facilitated the expansion of the Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA, now Stellantis) plant on Detroit's east side.<ref name="brooker2024">Brooker, Jena. "Moroun-owned firm built east side concrete plant without permit." BridgeDetroit, May 17, 2024.</ref> By a 6-3 vote, City Council approved a transfer of $43.5 million in cash plus 200 acres of city-owned land throughout Detroit in exchange for an 82.2-acre parking lot owned by the [[Moroun family]]'s [[Crown Enterprises]].<ref name="allnutt2021">Allnutt, Brian. "How an east side land deal impacted a dispute over Moroun-owned land in southwest Detroit." Planet Detroit, March 1, 2021.</ref> Dozens of the properties received by the Morouns are in Cadillac Heights— a neighborhood within Benson's District 3.<ref name="allnutt2021" />

At the time, FCA was leasing the parking lot from the Morouns and using it for parking. After the complex land swap was completed and the lot transferred to FCA, the property continues to serve the same function it had before— as a parking lot.<ref name="handbuilt2021">Guest. "A Common-Sense Rezoning Hits Billionaire Resistance." The Handbuilt City, February 10, 2021.</ref>

The land swap vote occurred against a backdrop of significant political contributions from Moroun-backed entities. Of the approximately $200,000 that various Moroun-backed political action committees spent on candidates during the 2017 city council election, Benson received $1,919 from the Turn Around Wayne County Super PAC, which was financially supported by the Moroun family.<ref name="allnutt2021" />

=== Consequences in Cadillac Heights ===
The land acquired by Crown Enterprises through the swap would later become the source of significant controversy in Benson's own district. In 2022, Crown began construction of a concrete mixing plant on parcels obtained through the FCA deal, building the facility without proper permits before receiving a stop work notice from the city's Buildings, Safety, Engineering, and Environmental Department (BSEED).<ref name="brooker2024" />

The plant's operation has created what residents describe as harmful dust, noise, and increased truck traffic in the predominantly Black neighborhood.<ref name="barrett2025">Barrett, Malachi. "East side neighbors urge city to shut down Moroun-owned concrete plant." BridgeDetroit, April 9, 2025.</ref> Simultaneously, Crown Enterprises engaged in a campaign to pressure longtime residents to sell their homes, offering below-market prices and short deadlines, effectively displacing families who had lived in the area for decades.<ref name="brooker2022">Brooker, Jena. "One of Detroit's most powerful families is displacing east side residents." Planet Detroit, September 21, 2022.</ref>

=== Shifting Explanations ===
When confronted about the concrete plant's impacts on his constituents in 2024, Benson characterized the land swap as an administrative decision by the mayor's office rather than a legislative choice requiring council approval, stating: "This was a city of Detroit deal cut on the 11th floor," referring to the mayor's office.<ref name="barrett2025" />

However, when pressed further about his role in the transaction, Benson ultimately acknowledged and defended his support for the land swap. In a 2024 interview, he stated: "I still support and stand in front of my vote to bring jobs and development and investment to the City of Detroit and focus on our residents."<ref name="brooker2024" />

Benson maintained that he "couldn't have anticipated the situation today in Cadillac Heights" and argued that the deal was necessary for economic development.<ref name="brooker2024" /> He emphasized the job creation aspect of the Stellantis plant, despite the company's subsequent layoffs and workforce reductions at the facility.<ref name="brooker2024" />

== FBI Investigation ==
Benson became a focus of federal investigators due to his connections to the city's towing industry. Benson sits on the council's Public Health and Safety Committee, which handles towing oversight, and had previously aided towing industry interests.<ref name="deadline-dark-money">{{cite news|author=Violet Ikonomova|title=Duggan-tied dark money groups push four Detroit City Council candidates|url=|publisher=Deadline Detroit|date=October 8, 2021}}</ref>

In July 2021, Benson prevented a proposed towing ordinance from advancing at a meeting of the Public Health and Safety Committee, which he chairs. The measure, introduced by Council President Brenda Jones, would have created city-level towing regulations and curbed predatory practices such as refusing to release a vehicle whose owner shows up before it's hauled away.<ref name="deadline-towing">{{cite news|author=Violet Ikonomova|title=Detroit council members raided by FBI advocated for towing companies|url=|publisher=Deadline Detroit|date=August 27, 2021}}</ref> Benson expressed concern about possible misdemeanors for violators of the new rules, saying "The big issue is, am I going to wind up in handcuffs for violating this ordinance?" speaking from the perspective of a tow operator.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

Benson had received between $500-$2,000 in direct campaign contributions from towing company owners and affiliates, including contributions from Gasper Fiore and/or his daughter Jennifer.<ref name="deadline-towing" /> Fiore was a former towing magnate who had previously served prison time for bribing a Macomb County official.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

=== Federal Raids and Investigation ===
On August 25, 2021, just weeks after Benson prevented a proposed towing ordinance from advancing, FBI agents executed search warrants at Benson's home, that of fellow Detroit City Council member [[Janeé Ayers]], as well as at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center downtown.<ref name="wdet-fbi">{{cite news|author=Eli Newman|title=Homes of Ayers and Benson Searched by FBI, Expanding Inquiry into Detroit City Council Corruption|url=|publisher=WDET|date=August 25, 2021}}</ref><ref name="wxyz-fbi">{{cite news|title=FBI raids Detroit city hall, homes of council members in corruption investigation|url=|publisher=WXYZ|date=August 25, 2021}}</ref> Federal officials also searched Benson's Harper Woods home and carried out multiple boxes from the offices where City Council conducts its official business.<ref name="wdet-fbi" />

The searches were part of what federal investigators described as an ongoing public corruption investigation. "The citizens of Detroit have a right to a city government that's free of corruption," said FBI Special Agent Tim Waters, who led the Detroit field office.<ref name="wxyz-fbi" /> The probe was part of the government's wider investigation dubbed "Operation Northern Hook," an investigation of corruption within government and the Detroit Police Department related to the towing industry.<ref name="freep-closed">{{cite news|author=Dana Afana|title=Feds close public corruption investigation of Scott Benson, Janeé Ayers|url=|publisher=Detroit Free Press|date=January 17, 2025}}</ref> The broader federal corruption probe had already resulted in charges against Councilman [[André Spivey]], who was charged with conspiracy to commit bribery for allegedly accepting more than $35,000 in bribes.<ref name="wdet-fbi" /> Spivey was cooperating with the FBI by the time of the July 2021 towing committee meeting, his lawyer has said.<ref name="deadline-towing" />

Items seized during the FBI raids included towing documents, an envelope titled "Troy's Towing," 12 thumb drives with labels including "Detroit towing," "Detroit Blight Removal," "Crossroads," "Touring," and "DEGC" for the [[Detroit Economic Growth Corporation]], as well as copies of deposited checks and financial documents.<ref name="fox2-seizure">{{cite news|author=David Komer|title=FBI's seized items from Detroit councilmembers include towing documents, thumb drives|url=|publisher=FOX 2|date=September 14, 2021}}</ref>

=== Investigation Conclusion ===
In January 2025, federal prosecutors closed the investigation without filing criminal charges against Benson, Ayers, or their chiefs of staff. Benson was notified of the decision by the U.S. Attorney [[Dawn Ison]]'s office in Detroit.<ref name="deadline-no-charges">{{cite news|author=Allan Lengel|title=Years After FBI Raided 2 Detroit Council Members' Homes, No Charges Will Be Filed|url=|publisher=Deadline Detroit|date=January 16, 2025}}</ref><ref name="freep-closed" />

"I am happy that the government has confirmed that what I said over three years ago was accurate: Scott Benson did nothing wrong," Benson's attorney Steve Fishman said in an email.<ref name="freep-closed" />

== The File ==
<references />

Scott Benson

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Adam Hollier

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[[File:MI13 Adam Hollier Israel First.webp|thumb|Adam Hollier was named an "Israel First" candidate by [https://www.trackaipac.com/candidates Track AIPAC]]]

US Representatives

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== Michigan-12 ==
[[Rashida Tlaib]] - Next election in 2026. First elected as representative for Michigan’s 13th congressional district in 2019 before redistricting.
[[File:Michigan's 12th congressional district.png|thumb|Michigan's 12th congressional district|border|none]]
== Michigan-13 ==
[[Shri Thanedar]]- Next election in 2026. First elected in 2023.

'''Declared Challengers'''

[[Donavan McKinney]]

[[Adam Hollier]]
[[File:Michigan's 13th congressional district.png|thumb|Michigan's 13th congressional district|none]]

US Representatives

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== Michigan-12 ==
[[Rashida Tlaib]] - Next election in 2026. First elected as representative for Michigan’s 13th congressional district in 2019 before redistricting.
[[File:Michigan's 12th congressional district.png|left|thumb|Michigan's 12th congressional district]]

== Michigan-13 ==
[[Shri Thanedar]]- Next election in 2026. First elected in 2023.

'''Declared Challengers'''

[[Donavan McKinney]]

[[Adam Hollier]]
[[File:Michigan's 13th congressional district.png|left|thumb|Michigan's 13th congressional district]]

US Representatives

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== Michigan-12 ==
[[Rashida Tlaib]] - Since Jan. 3, 2023 (next election in 2026)
[[File:Michigan's 12th congressional district.png|left|thumb|Michigan's 12th congressional district]]

<iframe width="425" height="300" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0"
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== Michigan-13 ==
[[Shri Thanedar]]- Since Jan. 3, 2023 (next election in 2026)
[[File:Michigan's 13th congressional district.png|left|thumb|Michigan's 13th congressional district]]

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Map of district boundaries since January 3, 2023

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Map of district 12 boundaries since January 3, 2023

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Gabriela Santiago-Romero

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Detroit City Council Formal Session - 07.29.2025

Gabriela Santiago-Romero

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313FILES:General disclaimer

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313files operates under the principle that information about political corruption and government influence is a matter of public interest. We do not intend to defame any individual, organization, or entity. We believe citizens have a right to access information about their elected officials and public institutions, while recognizing the need for accuracy. Information presented is based on publicly available sources, reports, and allegations. While we do our best to use the highest quality sources available, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of all sources cited.

Much of the content on this wiki involves allegations, accusations, or claims that may not have been proven in court. Subjects discussed may be:
<ul>
<li>Under investigation but not proven</li>
<li>Allegations made by various parties</li>
<li>Based on media reports that may be contested</li>
<li>Subject to ongoing legal proceedings</li>
<li>Matters of public debate and controversy</li>
</ul>

As such, we encourage users to distinguish between proven facts from allegations.

Political situations, investigations, and legal proceedings evolve rapidly. Information may become outdated quickly. Users should check for recent developments and updates to any situation of interest.

The content is intended for educational, research, and public awareness purposes only. We encourage responsible use of this information and critical evaluation of all sources and claims.

313FILES:General disclaimer

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Liability7973:

313files operates under the principle that information about political corruption and government influence is a matter of public interest. We do not intend to defame any individual, organization, or entity. We believe citizens have a right to access information about their elected officials and public institutions, while recognizing the need for accuracy. Information presented is based on publicly available sources, reports, and allegations. While we do our best to use the highest quality sources available, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of all sources cited.

Much of the content on this wiki involves allegations, accusations, or claims that may not have been proven in court. Subjects discussed may be:

• Under investigation but not proven
• Allegations made by various parties
• Based on media reports that may be contested
• Subject to ongoing legal proceedings
• Matters of public debate and controversy

As such, we encourage users to distinguish between proven facts from allegations.

Political situations, investigations, and legal proceedings evolve rapidly. Information may become outdated quickly. Users should check for recent developments and updates to any situation of interest.

The content is intended for educational, research, and public awareness purposes only. We encourage responsible use of this information and critical evaluation of all sources and claims.

313FILES:General disclaimer

2025-08-14T01:42:42Z

Liability7973: Created page with "313files operates under the principle that information about political corruption and government influence is a matter of public interest. We do not intend to defame any individual, organization, or entity. We believe citizens have a right to access information about their elected officials and public institutions, while recognizing the need for accuracy. Information presented is based on publicly available sources, reports, and allegations. While we do our best to use t..."

313files operates under the principle that information about political corruption and government influence is a matter of public interest. We do not intend to defame any individual, organization, or entity. We believe citizens have a right to access information about their elected officials and public institutions, while recognizing the need for accuracy. Information presented is based on publicly available sources, reports, and allegations. While we do our best to use the highest quality sources available, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of all sources cited.

Much of the content on this wiki involves allegations, accusations, or claims that may not have been proven in court. Subjects discussed may be:

Under investigation but not proven
Allegations made by various parties
Based on media reports that may be contested
Subject to ongoing legal proceedings
Matters of public debate and controversy

As such, we encourage users to distinguish between proven facts from allegations.

Political situations, investigations, and legal proceedings evolve rapidly. Information may become outdated quickly. Users should check for recent developments and updates to any situation of interest.

The content is intended for educational, research, and public awareness purposes only. We encourage responsible use of this information and critical evaluation of all sources and claims.

313FILES:About

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Liability7973: Created page with "313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite. Detroit's struggles aren't accidental. They're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful. By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks..."

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-13T16:12:11Z

Liability7973: /* Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption */

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election.<ref name=":3">Baldas, Tresa, Joe Guillen, and Matt Helms. "Figure in Kilpatrick case surfaces in FBI's probe of council vote scheme." ''Detroit Free Press'', April 4, 2014, A.1. </ref> The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]].<ref name=":3" /> The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.<ref name=":3" />

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.<ref name=":3" />

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme.<ref name=":3" /> Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.<ref>Baldas, Tresa, and Jim Schaefer. "Testimony about extortion claims dominates." ''Detroit Free Press'', October 28, 2012, Metro section.</ref>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

During Sheffield's 2025 mayoral campaign, Jackson assumed an even more prominent role as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's candidacy.<ref name=":1" /> The PAC funded billboard campaigns and campaign literature promoting Sheffield throughout Detroit. This arrangement became especially controversial when Sheffield sent a fundraising email claiming she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" - a statement her own campaign later admitted was misleading.<ref name=":1" />

On May 7, 2025, Detroit City Council, with Sheffield as its president, voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while Jackson was actively serving as executive director of the PAC supporting Sheffield's mayoral campaign.

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
Sheffield has faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-13T16:11:10Z

Liability7973: /* Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption */

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election.<ref name=":3">Baldas, Tresa, Joe Guillen, and Matt Helms. "Figure in Kilpatrick case surfaces in FBI's probe of council vote scheme." ''Detroit Free Press'', April 4, 2014, A.1. </ref> The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]].<ref name=":3" /> The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.<ref name=":3" />

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.<ref name=":3" />

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme.<ref name=":3" /> Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.<ref>Baldas, Tresa, and Jim Schaefer. "Testimony about extortion claims dominates." ''Detroit Free Press'', October 28, 2012, Metro section.</ref>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

During Sheffield's 2025 mayoral campaign, Jackson assumed an even more prominent role as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's candidacy.<ref name=":1" /> The PAC funded billboard campaigns and campaign literature promoting Sheffield throughout Detroit. This arrangement became especially controversial when Sheffield sent a fundraising email claiming she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" - a statement her own campaign later admitted was misleading, in part due to Jackson's PAC support.<ref name=":1" />

On May 7, 2025, Detroit City Council, with Sheffield as its president, voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while Jackson was actively serving as executive director of the PAC supporting Sheffield's mayoral campaign.

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
Sheffield has faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Main Page

2025-08-13T16:02:24Z

Liability7973: /* Understanding Detroit */

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental. They're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''
== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/2025/08/03/detroit-low-voter-turnout-mike-duggan-mayor-election-primary/85446370007/ Detroit's comeback left some behind ― and now they're not voting] Nancy Kaffer, Khalil AlHajal, Kristi Tanner,Detroit Free Press
* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.
== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Candidates advancing to general election

* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]

== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

Main Page

2025-08-13T16:01:29Z

Liability7973: /* Special Collections */

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental. They're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''
== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/2025/08/03/detroit-low-voter-turnout-mike-duggan-mayor-election-primary/85446370007/ Detroit's comeback left some behind ― and now they're not voting] Nancy Kaffer, Khalil AlHajal, Kristi Tanner,Detroit Free Press
* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.
== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Candidates advancing to general election

* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]

== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Understanding Detroit ==

* [https://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/ Detroit Urbanism]
* [https://detroiturbex.com/index.html Detroiturbex]
* [https://www.detroityes.com/ Detroit YES!]
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://motorcitymuckraker.com/ Motor City Muckracker]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

Main Page

2025-08-13T15:59:45Z

Liability7973: /* Understanding Detroit */

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental. They're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''
== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/2025/08/03/detroit-low-voter-turnout-mike-duggan-mayor-election-primary/85446370007/ Detroit's comeback left some behind ― and now they're not voting] Nancy Kaffer, Khalil AlHajal, Kristi Tanner,Detroit Free Press
* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.
== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Candidates advancing to general election

* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]

== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Special Collections ==

* [[Detroit's Champions: Leaders Who Stood for the People]]
* [[Detroit's MAGA Mega Donors]]
* [[Real Estate Speculators]]
* [[Dark Money in Detroit: PACS, SuperPACs, and the Rest]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Understanding Detroit ==

* [https://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/ Detroit Urbanism]
* [https://detroiturbex.com/index.html Detroiturbex]
* [https://www.detroityes.com/ Detroit YES!]
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://motorcitymuckraker.com/ Motor City Muckracker]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

Main Page

2025-08-13T15:59:21Z

Liability7973: /* What We're Reading */

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental. They're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''
== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.freep.com/story/opinion/columnists/2025/08/03/detroit-low-voter-turnout-mike-duggan-mayor-election-primary/85446370007/ Detroit's comeback left some behind ― and now they're not voting] Nancy Kaffer, Khalil AlHajal, Kristi Tanner,Detroit Free Press
* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.
== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Candidates advancing to general election

* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]

== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Special Collections ==

* [[Detroit's Champions: Leaders Who Stood for the People]]
* [[Detroit's MAGA Mega Donors]]
* [[Real Estate Speculators]]
* [[Dark Money in Detroit: PACS, SuperPACs, and the Rest]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Understanding Detroit ==

* [[Must Read Books]]
* [https://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/ Detroit Urbanism]
* [https://detroiturbex.com/index.html Detroiturbex]
* [https://www.detroityes.com/ Detroit YES!]
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://motorcitymuckraker.com/ Motor City Muckracker]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

Main Page

2025-08-13T15:39:56Z

Liability7973:

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental. They're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''
== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.
== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Candidates advancing to general election

* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]

== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Special Collections ==

* [[Detroit's Champions: Leaders Who Stood for the People]]
* [[Detroit's MAGA Mega Donors]]
* [[Real Estate Speculators]]
* [[Dark Money in Detroit: PACS, SuperPACs, and the Rest]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Understanding Detroit ==

* [[Must Read Books]]
* [https://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/ Detroit Urbanism]
* [https://detroiturbex.com/index.html Detroiturbex]
* [https://www.detroityes.com/ Detroit YES!]
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://motorcitymuckraker.com/ Motor City Muckracker]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-13T15:37:56Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election.<ref name=":3">Baldas, Tresa, Joe Guillen, and Matt Helms. "Figure in Kilpatrick case surfaces in FBI's probe of council vote scheme." ''Detroit Free Press'', April 4, 2014, A.1. </ref> The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]].<ref name=":3" /> The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.<ref name=":3" />

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.<ref name=":3" />

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme.<ref name=":3" /> Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.<ref>Baldas, Tresa, and Jim Schaefer. "Testimony about extortion claims dominates." ''Detroit Free Press'', October 28, 2012, Metro section.</ref>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

During Sheffield's 2025 mayoral campaign, Jackson assumed an even more prominent role as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's candidacy.<ref name=":1" /> The PAC funded billboard campaigns and campaign literature promoting Sheffield throughout Detroit. This arrangement became especially controversial when Sheffield sent a fundraising email claiming she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" - a statement her own campaign later admitted was misleading due to Jackson's PAC support.<ref name=":1" />

On May 7, 2025, Detroit City Council, with Sheffield as its president, voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while Jackson was actively serving as executive director of the PAC supporting Sheffield's mayoral campaign.

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
Sheffield has faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-13T15:37:24Z

Liability7973: /* FBI Investigation into Council President Vote (2014) */

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.</blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election.<ref name=":3">Baldas, Tresa, Joe Guillen, and Matt Helms. "Figure in Kilpatrick case surfaces in FBI's probe of council vote scheme." ''Detroit Free Press'', April 4, 2014, A.1. </ref> The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]].<ref name=":3" /> The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.<ref name=":3" />

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.<ref name=":3" />

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme.<ref name=":3" /> Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.<ref>Baldas, Tresa, and Jim Schaefer. "Testimony about extortion claims dominates." ''Detroit Free Press'', October 28, 2012, Metro section.</ref>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

During Sheffield's 2025 mayoral campaign, Jackson assumed an even more prominent role as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's candidacy.<ref name=":1" /> The PAC funded billboard campaigns and campaign literature promoting Sheffield throughout Detroit. This arrangement became especially controversial when Sheffield sent a fundraising email claiming she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" - a statement her own campaign later admitted was misleading due to Jackson's PAC support.<ref name=":1" />

On May 7, 2025, Detroit City Council, with Sheffield as its president, voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while Jackson was actively serving as executive director of the PAC supporting Sheffield's mayoral campaign.

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
Sheffield has faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-13T15:37:03Z

Liability7973: /* Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption */

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.</blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote (2014) ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election.<ref name=":3">Baldas, Tresa, Joe Guillen, and Matt Helms. "Figure in Kilpatrick case surfaces in FBI's probe of council vote scheme." ''Detroit Free Press'', April 4, 2014, A.1. </ref> The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]].<ref name=":3" /> The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.<ref name=":3" />

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.<ref name=":3" />

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme.<ref name=":3" /> Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.<ref>Baldas, Tresa, and Jim Schaefer. "Testimony about extortion claims dominates." ''Detroit Free Press'', October 28, 2012, Metro section.</ref>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

During Sheffield's 2025 mayoral campaign, Jackson assumed an even more prominent role as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's candidacy.<ref name=":1" /> The PAC funded billboard campaigns and campaign literature promoting Sheffield throughout Detroit. This arrangement became especially controversial when Sheffield sent a fundraising email claiming she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" - a statement her own campaign later admitted was misleading due to Jackson's PAC support.<ref name=":1" />

On May 7, 2025, Detroit City Council, with Sheffield as its president, voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while Jackson was actively serving as executive director of the PAC supporting Sheffield's mayoral campaign.

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
Sheffield has faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Chris Jackson

2025-08-13T15:30:31Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>'''Prosecutor:''' "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?"</blockquote>

<blockquote>'''Chris Jackson:''' "No."</blockquote>

== Federal Corruption Trial and Bribery Admission ==
Chris Jackson became a central figure in Detroit's corruption investigations when he admitted under oath to federal prosecutors that he attempted to buy a Detroit City Council vote through cash payments to a council aide. Jackson's testimony revealed the mechanics of Detroit's "pay-to-play" political culture during the Kilpatrick era.

=== The Déjà Vu Strip Club Scheme ===
In 2006, Jackson was working as a consultant for Déjà Vu Consulting, which sought to transfer a topless bar license to a downtown Detroit location. Jackson testified that [[Sam Riddle]], chief of staff to Councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]], demanded $25,000 for Conyers' vote on the license transfer.<ref name=":0">Schmitt, Ben. "Riddle asked us to buy Conyers' vote, men say." Detroit Free Press, January 28, 2010, 7A.</ref>

Joe Hall, general manager of Déjà Vu Consulting, testified that Riddle appeared at a meeting at Andiamo restaurant in Dearborn wearing a "gravy-stained tracksuit" and demanding $25,000, which Hall likened to "something out of a bad movie."<ref name=":0" /> When Déjà Vu executives refused to pay the bribe, Jackson took matters into his own hands.

Despite his clients' refusal to pay bribes, Jackson proceeded with the payments because he had a personal financial stake in the deal - he was negotiating for partial ownership of the clubs if the license transfer was approved.<ref name=":0" /> Jackson testified that he made two payments to Riddle's company, Meridian Management Systems:

* $10,000 on November 17, 2006, for Conyers to reconsider her vote
* $15,000 if the City Council ultimately approved the transfer<ref name=":0" />

The timing was crucial: Conyers filed a reconsideration memo with the city clerk on the exact same day Jackson made his first payment.<ref name=":0" /> However, public opposition from religious groups ultimately prevented Conyers from pursuing the matter, and Jackson placed a stop payment on the second check. Bank records show Riddle attempted to deposit the voided check on November 27, 2006.<ref name=":0" />

=== Federal Court Admission ===
When questioned by federal prosecutors about his intent, Jackson was unambiguous. Prosecutor: "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?" Jackson's response: "No."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council." FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref>

Jackson claimed he felt "victimized" and "shaken down" by the corrupt system, but acknowledged he went forward with the payments anyway because he "didn't want to miss the opportunity to make a lot of money."<ref name=":1" />

== From Witness to Insider ==
Despite admitting to federal crimes, Jackson received immunity for his cooperation and has since built a career as both a developer and political operative in Detroit.

Jackson currently serves as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], a position that oversees major construction projects and public spending. Detroit City Council voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while he was simultaneously serving as executive director of Detroit Next PAC, which was funding campaign materials for council president and mayoral candidate, [[Mary Sheffield]].<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." Detroit Free Press, June 22, 2025, 4A-9A.</ref>

Jackson's influence extends beyond traditional city government positions. He served as chair of the [[Neighborhood Advisory Council]] for the [[District Detroit]] project. This role placed Jackson at the center of one of Detroit's largest development deals, where an estimated $615 million in public incentives were granted to billionaire developers despite significant community opposition.<ref name=":3">Ferretti, Christine and Malachi Barrett. "State board OKs $615M incentive plan for District Detroit." Bridge Detroit, April 25, 2023. <nowiki>https://www.bridgedetroit.com/state-board-oks-615m-incentive-plan-for-district-detroit/</nowiki></ref>

Jackson's support for the District Detroit incentive package came amid significant community opposition. Detroit resident Anna Harris characterized the project as a "false dichotomy" where citizens were told to "fork over billions to billionaires or we get nothing," arguing that "vibrant cities are not an island of suburbanite playground of parking lots, chain restaurants and big box stores" that should be "subsidizing those efforts with desperately needed public funds."<ref name=":3" />

=== Professional Fundraising Operation ===
Jackson has operated as a political fundraiser, hosting events for numerous Detroit and state officials. Beneficiaries have included:

* Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]]
* Councilman [[Scott Benson]]
* Failed 2013 mayoral candidate [[Benny Napoleon]]
* Detroit City Council President [[Mary Sheffield]] (ongoing)<ref name=":1" />

== The Sheffield Connection ==
Jackson's relationship with Mary Sheffield represents a troubling pattern of Detroit politicians maintaining close ties with individuals who have admitted to corruption.

=== Annual Fundraising Host ===
Jackson has served as one of ten official hosts for Sheffield's annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser, a holiday-themed political fundraising event.<ref name=":1" />

When confronted by investigative reporter [[M.L. Elrick]] about Jackson's corruption admission, Sheffield was remarkably dismissive:<blockquote>'''Elrick:''' "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

'''Sheffield:''' "No."

'''Elrick:''' "How come?"

'''Sheffield:''' "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

=== Detroit Next PAC Leadership ===
More significantly, Jackson serves as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's mayoral campaign.<ref name=":2" /> The PAC has funded Pro-Sheffield propaganda including:

* Billboard campaigns across Detroit
* Campaign literature distribution<ref name=":2" />

== Jackson's Public Defense ==
When contacted for comment about his continued political activities, Jackson's representatives issued a statement claiming he was "victimized during an era marked by political corruption" and emphasizing his cooperation with federal authorities:<blockquote>"Nearly 10 years ago, Mr. Jackson became one person in a long line of people who were victimized during an era marked by political corruption in the city. He was a witness for the federal government in their successful prosecution of several people. Chris Jackson's courage, cooperation and testimony helped end public corruption in the city."<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>Notably, this defense omits Jackson's admission that he voluntarily initiated bribe payments for personal financial gain, instead framing him as a victim of the system he helped perpetuate.

== The File ==
<references />

Chris Jackson

2025-08-13T15:29:37Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>Prosecutor: "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?"</blockquote>

<blockquote>Chris Jackson: "No."</blockquote>

== Federal Corruption Trial and Bribery Admission ==
Chris Jackson became a central figure in Detroit's corruption investigations when he admitted under oath to federal prosecutors that he attempted to buy a Detroit City Council vote through cash payments to a council aide. Jackson's testimony revealed the mechanics of Detroit's "pay-to-play" political culture during the Kilpatrick era.

=== The Déjà Vu Strip Club Scheme ===
In 2006, Jackson was working as a consultant for Déjà Vu Consulting, which sought to transfer a topless bar license to a downtown Detroit location. Jackson testified that [[Sam Riddle]], chief of staff to Councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]], demanded $25,000 for Conyers' vote on the license transfer.<ref name=":0">Schmitt, Ben. "Riddle asked us to buy Conyers' vote, men say." Detroit Free Press, January 28, 2010, 7A.</ref>

Joe Hall, general manager of Déjà Vu Consulting, testified that Riddle appeared at a meeting at Andiamo restaurant in Dearborn wearing a "gravy-stained tracksuit" and demanding $25,000, which Hall likened to "something out of a bad movie."<ref name=":0" /> When Déjà Vu executives refused to pay the bribe, Jackson took matters into his own hands.

Despite his clients' refusal to pay bribes, Jackson proceeded with the payments because he had a personal financial stake in the deal - he was negotiating for partial ownership of the clubs if the license transfer was approved.<ref name=":0" /> Jackson testified that he made two payments to Riddle's company, Meridian Management Systems:

* $10,000 on November 17, 2006, for Conyers to reconsider her vote
* $15,000 if the City Council ultimately approved the transfer<ref name=":0" />

The timing was crucial: Conyers filed a reconsideration memo with the city clerk on the exact same day Jackson made his first payment.<ref name=":0" /> However, public opposition from religious groups ultimately prevented Conyers from pursuing the matter, and Jackson placed a stop payment on the second check. Bank records show Riddle attempted to deposit the voided check on November 27, 2006.<ref name=":0" />

=== Federal Court Admission ===
When questioned by federal prosecutors about his intent, Jackson was unambiguous. Prosecutor: "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?" Jackson's response: "No."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council." FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref>

Jackson claimed he felt "victimized" and "shaken down" by the corrupt system, but acknowledged he went forward with the payments anyway because he "didn't want to miss the opportunity to make a lot of money."<ref name=":1" />

== From Witness to Insider ==
Despite admitting to federal crimes, Jackson received immunity for his cooperation and has since built a career as both a developer and political operative in Detroit.

Jackson currently serves as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], a position that oversees major construction projects and public spending. Detroit City Council voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while he was simultaneously serving as executive director of Detroit Next PAC, which was funding campaign materials for council president and mayoral candidate, [[Mary Sheffield]].<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." Detroit Free Press, June 22, 2025, 4A-9A.</ref>

Jackson's influence extends beyond traditional city government positions. He served as chair of the [[Neighborhood Advisory Council]] for the [[District Detroit]] project. This role placed Jackson at the center of one of Detroit's largest development deals, where an estimated $615 million in public incentives were granted to billionaire developers despite significant community opposition.<ref name=":3">Ferretti, Christine and Malachi Barrett. "State board OKs $615M incentive plan for District Detroit." Bridge Detroit, April 25, 2023. <nowiki>https://www.bridgedetroit.com/state-board-oks-615m-incentive-plan-for-district-detroit/</nowiki></ref>

Jackson's support for the District Detroit incentive package came amid significant community opposition. Detroit resident Anna Harris characterized the project as a "false dichotomy" where citizens were told to "fork over billions to billionaires or we get nothing," arguing that "vibrant cities are not an island of suburbanite playground of parking lots, chain restaurants and big box stores" that should be "subsidizing those efforts with desperately needed public funds."<ref name=":3" />

=== Professional Fundraising Operation ===
Jackson has operated as a political fundraiser, hosting events for numerous Detroit and state officials. Beneficiaries have included:

* Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]]
* Councilman [[Scott Benson]]
* Failed 2013 mayoral candidate [[Benny Napoleon]]
* Detroit City Council President [[Mary Sheffield]] (ongoing)<ref name=":1" />

== The Sheffield Connection ==
Jackson's relationship with Mary Sheffield represents a troubling pattern of Detroit politicians maintaining close ties with individuals who have admitted to corruption.

=== Annual Fundraising Host ===
Jackson has served as one of ten official hosts for Sheffield's annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser, a holiday-themed political fundraising event.<ref name=":1" />

When confronted by investigative reporter [[M.L. Elrick]] about Jackson's corruption admission, Sheffield was remarkably dismissive:<blockquote>'''Elrick:''' "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

'''Sheffield:''' "No."

'''Elrick:''' "How come?"

'''Sheffield:''' "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

=== Detroit Next PAC Leadership ===
More significantly, Jackson serves as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's mayoral campaign.<ref name=":2" /> The PAC has funded Pro-Sheffield propaganda including:

* Billboard campaigns across Detroit
* Campaign literature distribution<ref name=":2" />

== Jackson's Public Defense ==
When contacted for comment about his continued political activities, Jackson's representatives issued a statement claiming he was "victimized during an era marked by political corruption" and emphasizing his cooperation with federal authorities:<blockquote>"Nearly 10 years ago, Mr. Jackson became one person in a long line of people who were victimized during an era marked by political corruption in the city. He was a witness for the federal government in their successful prosecution of several people. Chris Jackson's courage, cooperation and testimony helped end public corruption in the city."<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>Notably, this defense omits Jackson's admission that he voluntarily initiated bribe payments for personal financial gain, instead framing him as a victim of the system he helped perpetuate.

== The File ==
<references />

Chris Jackson

2025-08-13T15:29:06Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>Prosecutor: "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?"

Chris Jackson: "No."</blockquote>

== Federal Corruption Trial and Bribery Admission ==
Chris Jackson became a central figure in Detroit's corruption investigations when he admitted under oath to federal prosecutors that he attempted to buy a Detroit City Council vote through cash payments to a council aide. Jackson's testimony revealed the mechanics of Detroit's "pay-to-play" political culture during the Kilpatrick era.

=== The Déjà Vu Strip Club Scheme ===
In 2006, Jackson was working as a consultant for Déjà Vu Consulting, which sought to transfer a topless bar license to a downtown Detroit location. Jackson testified that [[Sam Riddle]], chief of staff to Councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]], demanded $25,000 for Conyers' vote on the license transfer.<ref name=":0">Schmitt, Ben. "Riddle asked us to buy Conyers' vote, men say." Detroit Free Press, January 28, 2010, 7A.</ref>

Joe Hall, general manager of Déjà Vu Consulting, testified that Riddle appeared at a meeting at Andiamo restaurant in Dearborn wearing a "gravy-stained tracksuit" and demanding $25,000, which Hall likened to "something out of a bad movie."<ref name=":0" /> When Déjà Vu executives refused to pay the bribe, Jackson took matters into his own hands.

Despite his clients' refusal to pay bribes, Jackson proceeded with the payments because he had a personal financial stake in the deal - he was negotiating for partial ownership of the clubs if the license transfer was approved.<ref name=":0" /> Jackson testified that he made two payments to Riddle's company, Meridian Management Systems:

* $10,000 on November 17, 2006, for Conyers to reconsider her vote
* $15,000 if the City Council ultimately approved the transfer<ref name=":0" />

The timing was crucial: Conyers filed a reconsideration memo with the city clerk on the exact same day Jackson made his first payment.<ref name=":0" /> However, public opposition from religious groups ultimately prevented Conyers from pursuing the matter, and Jackson placed a stop payment on the second check. Bank records show Riddle attempted to deposit the voided check on November 27, 2006.<ref name=":0" />

=== Federal Court Admission ===
When questioned by federal prosecutors about his intent, Jackson was unambiguous. Prosecutor: "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?" Jackson's response: "No."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council." FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref>

Jackson claimed he felt "victimized" and "shaken down" by the corrupt system, but acknowledged he went forward with the payments anyway because he "didn't want to miss the opportunity to make a lot of money."<ref name=":1" />

== From Witness to Insider ==
Despite admitting to federal crimes, Jackson received immunity for his cooperation and has since built a career as both a developer and political operative in Detroit.

Jackson currently serves as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], a position that oversees major construction projects and public spending. Detroit City Council voted to reappoint Jackson to the Detroit Building Authority for a new term running through January 31, 2029.<ref>Detroit City Council. "A Resolution Reappointing a Member to the Detroit Building Authority." Detroit City Council Resolution, May 7, 2025.</ref> This reappointment occurred while he was simultaneously serving as executive director of Detroit Next PAC, which was funding campaign materials for council president and mayoral candidate, [[Mary Sheffield]].<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." Detroit Free Press, June 22, 2025, 4A-9A.</ref>

Jackson's influence extends beyond traditional city government positions. He served as chair of the [[Neighborhood Advisory Council]] for the [[District Detroit]] project. This role placed Jackson at the center of one of Detroit's largest development deals, where an estimated $615 million in public incentives were granted to billionaire developers despite significant community opposition.<ref name=":3">Ferretti, Christine and Malachi Barrett. "State board OKs $615M incentive plan for District Detroit." Bridge Detroit, April 25, 2023. <nowiki>https://www.bridgedetroit.com/state-board-oks-615m-incentive-plan-for-district-detroit/</nowiki></ref>

Jackson's support for the District Detroit incentive package came amid significant community opposition. Detroit resident Anna Harris characterized the project as a "false dichotomy" where citizens were told to "fork over billions to billionaires or we get nothing," arguing that "vibrant cities are not an island of suburbanite playground of parking lots, chain restaurants and big box stores" that should be "subsidizing those efforts with desperately needed public funds."<ref name=":3" />

=== Professional Fundraising Operation ===
Jackson has operated as a political fundraiser, hosting events for numerous Detroit and state officials. Beneficiaries have included:

* Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]]
* Councilman [[Scott Benson]]
* Failed 2013 mayoral candidate [[Benny Napoleon]]
* Detroit City Council President [[Mary Sheffield]] (ongoing)<ref name=":1" />

== The Sheffield Connection ==
Jackson's relationship with Mary Sheffield represents a troubling pattern of Detroit politicians maintaining close ties with individuals who have admitted to corruption.

=== Annual Fundraising Host ===
Jackson has served as one of ten official hosts for Sheffield's annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser, a holiday-themed political fundraising event.<ref name=":1" />

When confronted by investigative reporter [[M.L. Elrick]] about Jackson's corruption admission, Sheffield was remarkably dismissive:<blockquote>'''Elrick:''' "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

'''Sheffield:''' "No."

'''Elrick:''' "How come?"

'''Sheffield:''' "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>

=== Detroit Next PAC Leadership ===
More significantly, Jackson serves as executive director of [[Detroit Next PAC]], a political action committee specifically created to support Sheffield's mayoral campaign.<ref name=":2" /> The PAC has funded Pro-Sheffield propaganda including:

* Billboard campaigns across Detroit
* Campaign literature distribution<ref name=":2" />

== Jackson's Public Defense ==
When contacted for comment about his continued political activities, Jackson's representatives issued a statement claiming he was "victimized during an era marked by political corruption" and emphasizing his cooperation with federal authorities:<blockquote>"Nearly 10 years ago, Mr. Jackson became one person in a long line of people who were victimized during an era marked by political corruption in the city. He was a witness for the federal government in their successful prosecution of several people. Chris Jackson's courage, cooperation and testimony helped end public corruption in the city."<ref name=":1" /></blockquote>Notably, this defense omits Jackson's admission that he voluntarily initiated bribe payments for personal financial gain, instead framing him as a victim of the system he helped perpetuate.

== The File ==
<references />

Chris Jackson

2025-08-13T15:28:14Z

Liability7973: Created page with "<blockquote>Prosecutor: "Was there any doubt in your mind Mr. Jackson you were paying Mr. Riddle for Monica Conyers' vote?" Chris Jackson: "No."</blockquote> == Federal Corruption Trial and Bribery Admission == Chris Jackson became a central figure in Detroit's corruption investigations when he admitted under oath to federal prosecutors that he attempted to buy a Detroit City Council vote through cash payments to a council aide. Jackson's testimony revealed the mechan..."

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-12T00:48:12Z

Liability7973: /* FBI Investigation into Council President Vote (2014) */

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.</blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote (2014) ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election.<ref name=":3">Baldas, Tresa, Joe Guillen, and Matt Helms. "Figure in Kilpatrick case surfaces in FBI's probe of council vote scheme." ''Detroit Free Press'', April 4, 2014, A.1. </ref> The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]].<ref name=":3" /> The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.<ref name=":3" />

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.<ref name=":3" />

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme.<ref name=":3" /> Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.<ref>Baldas, Tresa, and Jim Schaefer. "Testimony about extortion claims dominates." ''Detroit Free Press'', October 28, 2012, Metro section.</ref>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding Controversy ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
During her 2025 mayoral campaign, Sheffield faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-12T00:44:05Z

Liability7973: /* Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding Controversy */

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.</blockquote>

== FBI Investigation into Council President Vote (2014) ==
In April 2014, Sheffield became the subject of an FBI investigation into allegations of vote-buying related to the [[Detroit City Council]] presidential election. The allegations emerged following the January 2014 council president election, where Sheffield was among five members who voted for [[Brenda Jones]] in a 5-4 victory over incumbent President [[Saunteel Jenkins]]. The same coalition also elected [[George Cushingberry Jr.]] as president pro tem. The investigation centered on claims that construction contractor [[Thomas Hardiman Sr.]] had allegedly offered to pay off Sheffield's campaign debt in exchange for her vote in the council president race.

The allegations surfaced through a February 2014 conversation at Cutter's Bar and Grill in Eastern Market between Detroit Police Chief [[James Craig]], Rev. [[Horace Sheffield III]] (Mary Sheffield's father), and political consultant [[Adolph Mongo]]. According to reports, Horace Sheffield disclosed during this conversation that someone had approached his daughter about paying off her campaign debt in exchange for directing her vote for council president.

Three sources confirmed to the ''Detroit Free Press'' that Thomas Hardiman Sr., president and CEO of A&H Contractors, was the individual allegedly involved in the scheme. Hardiman had previously served as a government witness in the [[Kwame Kilpatrick|Kilpatrick]] corruption probe while working at Lakeshore Engineering Services.

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding Controversy ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from [[Matthew Moroun|Matthew]] and [[Lindsay Moroun]] in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years
* $13,000 from billionaire [[Daniel Gilbert|Dan Gilbert]]'s [[Rock Holdings State PAC]] in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman [[Antonice Strickland]] acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
During her 2025 mayoral campaign, Sheffield faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Mary Sheffield

2025-08-11T21:36:38Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had '''"been backed by a corporate PAC for sure"''' while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false.</blockquote>

== Associations with Individuals Implicated in Public Corruption ==
[[File:Duggan-Whitmer MSHDA Low Income Tax Credits-22 (48350658377) (Mary Sheffield).jpg|thumb|Mary Sheffield]]In December 2015, FOX 2 Detroit reported that [[Chris Jackson]], a Detroit developer who had previously admitted under oath to attempting to bribe a city councilwoman, was serving as one of the hosts for Sheffield's second annual "Tis the Season" fundraiser.<ref name=":0">"He paid to play, now he raises $ for city council," FOX 2 Detroit, December 11, 2015.</ref> Jackson, who also held an official position as treasurer of the [[Detroit Building Authority Commission]], had testified in federal court that he paid $25,000 to political consultant [[Sam Riddle]] to secure then-councilwoman [[Monica Conyers]]' vote.<ref name=":0" />

When directly questioned by reporter ML Elrick about this association, Sheffield displayed a dismissive attitude toward Jackson's admitted corruption:<blockquote>Elrick: "He's also someone who had admitted under oath in a federal trial that he tried to buy a councilwoman's vote. Does that concern you at all?"

Sheffield: "No."

Elrick: "How come?"

Sheffield: "He's one of several hosts on my committee. And again he has served as a host for several elected officials in the city and state for the last 18 years. Again, he has served the citizens of the city since I've been elected. He's done an outstanding job. I'm honored to have him as a host."<ref name=":0" /></blockquote>The investigation also revealed that Sheffield had previously been photographed with [[Rayford Jackson]] (no relation to Chris Jackson), another individual who had been implicated in attempts to bribe former councilwoman Monica Conyers.<ref name=":0" />

Sam Riddle, a former political consultant who himself served three years in federal prison after pleading guilty in a public corruption case, warned about Sheffield's associations: "As one who wallowed in the cesspool of corruption, I can tell you this, and that is that Mary Sheffield has to be very careful who she surrounds herself with... These guys are very slick, they're slicksters."<ref name=":0" />

Jackson's spokesman claimed that Jackson had hosted fundraisers for many elected officials, including former Detroit City Council President [[Brenda Jones]] and councilman [[Scott Benson]], suggesting that Sheffield was not alone in maintaining these controversial political relationships.<ref name=":0" />

[[Horace Sheffield III]]

== Progressive Messaging vs. Corporate Funding Controversy ==
During her 2025 Detroit mayoral campaign, Sheffield positioned herself as a progressive grassroots candidate opposing corporate influence in politics. In a June 16, 2025 fundraising email sent after a televised mayoral debate, Sheffield's campaign claimed she was "not backed by billionaires or corporate PACs" and was instead "powered by people like you who believe in a Detroit that is united, thriving and just."<ref name=":1">Elrick, M.L. "Sheffield admits fundraising email was misleading." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 22, 2025, A.4. </ref>

Campaign finance documents contradicted Sheffield's populist messaging, revealing substantial backing from corporate interests. Records showed Sheffield had received:

* Maximum individual contributions of $8,325 each from Matthew and Lindsay Moroun in 2023, members of one of metro Detroit's most infamous families
* Nearly $24,000 in total contributions from the Moroun family over multiple years$13,000 from billionaire Dan Gilbert's Rock Holdings State PAC in 2023
* $3,714 in in-kind contributions from Rock's corporate PAC in 2022, which covered costs for Sheffield's annual birthday fundraiser at a Gilbert-owned venue
* Large donations from various local executives and CEOs, including leaders from Strategic Staffing Solutions, Belfor, and Sachse Construction<ref name=":1" />

When confronted with the factual inaccuracies by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield declined to discuss the email. Campaign spokeswoman Antonice Strickland acknowledged the error, stating that Sheffield had "been backed by a corporate PAC for sure" while claiming the misleading statement was "not intentionally" false. Strickland attributed the discrepancy to "an overly enthusiastic staff member using standard campaign language from previous fundraising campaigns."<ref name=":1" />

The controversy highlighted the gap between Sheffield's rhetoric and her reliance on funding from the same wealthy interests opposed to progressive policies, raising questions about the authenticity of her public claims.

== Taxpayer-Funded Mailings ==
During her 2025 mayoral campaign, Sheffield faced scrutiny for her extensive use of taxpayer funds to send greeting cards and promotional materials to Detroit residents. According to records obtained by the ''Detroit Free Press'', Sheffield spent over $100,000 in city council funds on mailings since announcing her mayoral ambitions, with an additional estimated $20,000 on Mother's Day and Father's Day cards.<ref name=":2">Elrick, M.L. "Tax dollars used to send card to dead woman." ''Detroit Free Press'', June 29, 2025, A.4.</ref>

The controversy intensified when it was revealed that Sheffield had sent a birthday card using taxpayer money to Eren Stephens, a woman who had died six years earlier. The card was addressed to a District 4 residence, outside Sheffield's District 5 constituency. Sheffield's office attributed such errors to "imperfections" in mailing lists but defended the practice as legitimate constituent outreach.<ref name=":2" />

Records showed Sheffield's mailings specifically targeted registered voters rather than general constituents, with procurement documents indicating addresses were drawn from "state or city of Detroit" voter files. The timing of increased spending coincided with her mayoral campaign activities—Sheffield formed her mayoral committee in August 2023, with a significant $19,887 mailing to her district occurring in June 2023.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield's most expensive single mailing occurred in January 2025, when she spent over $43,000 to send 88,300 birthday cards to Detroit residents aged 60 and older—a demographic with high voter turnout rates. In June 2024, she conducted her first citywide mailing, spending over $28,000 to send 120,000 postcards to 95,000 households across all Detroit districts, despite representing only District 5.<ref name=":2" />

Sheffield defended the mailings through her chief of staff, claiming they were legitimate constituent communications approved by the city's procurement office. She argued that as council president, she had "citywide implications and responsibilities" justifying mailings beyond her district. When pressed about the propriety of the expenditures, Sheffield accused critics of racism, stating the issue was "only being made" because she was "a candidate for Mayor and a Black woman."<ref name=":2" />

== The File ==
<references />
[[Category:Detroit City Council]]

Main Page

2025-08-11T21:24:47Z

Liability7973: /* 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles */

== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental—they're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''

== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Candidates advancing to general election

* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]

== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Special Collections ==

* [[Detroit's Champions: Leaders Who Stood for the People]]
* [[Detroit's MAGA Mega Donors]]
* [[Real Estate Speculators]]
* [[Dark Money in Detroit: PACS, SuperPACs, and the Rest]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Understanding Detroit ==

* [[Must Read Books]]
* [https://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/ Detroit Urbanism]
* [https://detroiturbex.com/index.html Detroiturbex]
* [https://www.detroityes.com/ Detroit YES!]
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://motorcitymuckraker.com/ Motor City Muckracker]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

File:Nepo Baby.png

2025-06-03T15:29:54Z

Liability7973:

Nepo Baby

Main Page

2025-06-03T15:12:27Z

Liability7973: /* What We're Reading (2/23/25) */

== What We're Reading ==

* [https://www.deadlinedetroit.com/articles/33128/most_supporters_of_hauling_hazardous_materials_on_ambassador_bridge_got_campaign_donations_from_morouns_documents_show Most Supporters of Hauling Hazardous Materials on Ambassador Bridge Got Campaign Donations From Morouns, Documents Show] Tom Perkins, Deadline Detroit.
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/motor-city-match-whistleblower-lawsuit-ends-with-settlement/ Motor City Match whistleblower lawsuit ends with settlement] Malachi Barrett, BridgeDetroit.
* [https://www.metrotimes.com/news/corporate-welfare-took-1-billion-from-detroits-schools-city-services-over-past-decade-37072808 Corporate welfare took $1 billion from Detroit’s schools, city services over past decade] Steve Neavling, Detroit Metro Times.

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

Detroit's struggles aren't accidental—they're the inevitable result of institutions that enable the powerful to trade public resources for personal gain while facing minimal accountability. They flow from a structural moral bankruptcy that encourages exploitation of the poor to benefit the rich and powerful.

By connecting isolated incidents into documented patterns, 313files.org seeks to expose not just individual bad actors, but the fundamental flaws in a system designed to prioritize profit over people. Every entry is meticulously sourced from public records, verified reporting, and official documents.

'''We believe the people of Detroit will not flourish until we all work to expose and dismantle the structures that consistently prioritize elite interests over community wellbeing.'''

== 2025 Mayoral Race Profiles ==
Formed campaign committees and requested nominating petitions
* [[Jonathan Barlow]]
* [[James Craig]]
* [[Fred Durhal III]]
* [[Joel Haashiim]]
* [[Saunteel Jenkins]]
* [[Solomon Kinloch Jr.]]
* [[Rogelio Landin]]
* [[Todd R. Perkins]]
* [[Mary Sheffield]]
* [[Joe Tate|<s>Joe Tate</s>]]
== Current Elected Leaders ==

* [[City of Detroit Elected Leadership]]
* [[Wayne County Elected Leadership]]
* [[State Representatives]]
* [[State Senators]]
* [[US Representatives]]

== Special Collections ==

* [[Detroit's Champions: Leaders Who Stood for the People]]
* [[Detroit's MAGA Mega Donors]]
* [[Real Estate Speculators]]
* [[Dark Money in Detroit: PACS, SuperPACs, and the Rest]]

== Research Tools ==

* [[Accessing Newspaper Archives through the Library of Michigan]]
* [https://www.michigan.gov/sos/elections/disclosure/cfr/committee-search/intro/welcome-to-the-michigan-campaign-finance-searchable-database Michigan Campaign Finance Database]
* [[Wayne County Campaign Finance System|Wayne County Campaign Finance Database]]
* [https://www.fec.gov/data/ Federal Campaign Finance Database]
* [https://www.adbmich.org/attorney-information/attorney-database Michigan Attorney Discipline Board]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/ ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer]
* [https://projects.propublica.org/527-explorer/ ProPublica 527 Explorer]
* [https://propertypraxis.org/ Property Praxis]

== Understanding Detroit ==

* [[Must Read Books]]
* [https://detroiturbanism.blogspot.com/ Detroit Urbanism]
* [https://detroiturbex.com/index.html Detroiturbex]
* [https://www.detroityes.com/ Detroit YES!]
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://motorcitymuckraker.com/ Motor City Muckracker]
* [https://voiceofdetroit.net/ Voice of Detroit]

== Media Outlets ==

* [https://www.capitolhillcitizen.com/ Capitol Hill Citizen] (Print only)
* [https://outliermedia.org/ Outlier Media]
* [https://www.bridgedetroit.com/ BridgeDetroit]
* [https://www.bridgemi.com/ Bridge Michigan]
* [https://www.chalkbeat.org/detroit/ Chalkbeat Detroit]
* [https://www.corporatecrimereporter.com/ Corporate Crime Reporter] (Print only)
* [https://planetdetroit.org/ Planet Detroit]

== Contact ==
Submit confidential tips through our [[Contact|secure channels]].

Scott Benson

2025-04-08T21:09:57Z

Liability7973:

== Drunk Driving Conviction ==
'''Summary:''' In June 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson was arrested after police found him unconscious in his city-owned car with an open bottle of bourbon. His blood alcohol level was 0.24 percent, three times the legal limit. Despite initially claiming he had only one sip of vodka, Benson later pleaded guilty to drunken driving. In January 2015, Judge Bill Richards sentenced him to seven days in jail, $2,000 in fines, two years probation, and counseling, noting this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense. Benson publicly apologized and promised to make necessary lifestyle changes to continue serving his district effectively.

=== Details ===
On June 29, 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson, who represented District 3, was arrested in Southfield, Michigan. Police found Benson unconscious behind the wheel of his city-owned 2008 Crown Victoria near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and the Southfield Freeway.<ref name=":0">"Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson arrested in Southfield," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), June 30, 2014, myFOXDetroit.com Staff.</ref> A witness had called 911 reporting, "I don't know if there's something wrong with this guy in this car at Southfield and 8 Mile at the service drive. It's not moving and neither is the person inside."<ref name=":1">"Detroit councilman Scott Benson receives jail sentence for DUI," FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit), January 22, 2015.</ref>

At the time of his arrest, Benson was found with an open bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon in the vehicle. Although he initially told Southfield police he had only consumed "one sip" of vodka, a blood test revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.24 percent, three times Michigan's legal limit for driving.<ref name=":1" /> He was placed under arrest for operating while impaired and released on a $500 bond.<ref name=":0" />

On October 2014, Benson pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of drunken driving after initially being charged with "super drunk driving."<ref name=":1" /> On January 22, 2015, Benson appeared before Judge Bill Richards in Southfield district court for sentencing. During the proceedings, Judge Richards noted that this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense, though details of the previous incident were not provided.<ref name=":1" />

Benson read a prepared statement in court: "I'd like to apologize to this court, the residents of Southfield and Detroit, my colleagues and family for my egregious behavior of June 2014."<ref name=":1" /> Judge Richards sentenced Benson to seven days in the Oakland County Jail (half the time recommended by court officials), $2,000 in fines and costs, two years of probation, continued substance abuse counseling, and meetings with victims of drunk driving tragedies. Benson chose to begin serving his jail sentence on March 13, 2015.<ref name=":1" />

Following the sentencing, Benson issued a longer statement expressing remorse and indicating he had "made the appropriate and necessary lifestyle changes" while pledging to "continue to labor hard for my district and the citizens of Detroit without distraction."<ref name=":1" />

A review of Benson's driving record by Fox 2 revealed several suspensions for unpaid fees dating back to 2011, minor traffic infractions, and a hold on his license for unpaid parking tickets in Detroit.<ref name=":0" />

== The File ==
<references />

Scott Benson

2025-04-08T21:02:10Z

Liability7973: Created page with "Drunk driving incident On June 29, 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson, who represented District 3, was arrested in Southfield, Michigan. Police found Benson unconscious behind the wheel of his city-owned 2008 Crown Victoria near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and the Southfield Freeway.[1] A witness had called 911 reporting, "I don't know if there's something wrong with this guy in this car at Southfield and 8 Mile at the..."

Drunk driving incident
On June 29, 2014, Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson, who represented District 3, was arrested in Southfield, Michigan. Police found Benson unconscious behind the wheel of his city-owned 2008 Crown Victoria near the intersection of 8 Mile Road and the Southfield Freeway.[1] A witness had called 911 reporting, "I don't know if there's something wrong with this guy in this car at Southfield and 8 Mile at the service drive. It's not moving and neither is the person inside."[2]
At the time of his arrest, Benson was found with an open bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon in the vehicle. Although he initially told Southfield police he had only consumed "one sip" of vodka, a blood test revealed his blood alcohol content was 0.24 percent, three times Michigan's legal limit for driving.[2] He was placed under arrest for operating while impaired and released on a $500 bond.[1]
Following the arrest, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan and City Council President Brenda Jones issued a joint statement: "We have recently learned that misdemeanor charges are being sought against Councilman Scott Benson. We have no first-hand facts about the matter and we will not speculate. Instead we will let the judicial system proceed in its normal course. In the meantime, we will remain focused on getting the City's business done."[1]
On October 2014, Benson pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of drunken driving after initially being charged with "super drunk driving."[2] On January 22, 2015, Benson appeared before Judge Bill Richards in Southfield district court for sentencing. During the proceedings, Judge Richards noted that this was Benson's second alcohol-related driving offense, though details of the previous incident were not provided.[2]
Benson read a prepared statement in court: "I'd like to apologize to this court, the residents of Southfield and Detroit, my colleagues and family for my egregious behavior of June 2014."[2] Judge Richards sentenced Benson to seven days in the Oakland County Jail (half the time recommended by court officials), $2,000 in fines and costs, two years of probation, continued substance abuse counseling, and meetings with victims of drunk driving tragedies. Benson chose to begin serving his jail sentence on March 13, 2015.[2]
Following the sentencing, Benson issued a longer statement expressing remorse and indicating he had "made the appropriate and necessary lifestyle changes" while pledging to "continue to labor hard for my district and the citizens of Detroit without distraction."[2]
A review of Benson's driving record by Fox 2 revealed several suspensions for unpaid fees dating back to 2011, minor traffic infractions, and a hold on his license for unpaid parking tickets in Detroit.[1]
References
<references>
<ref id="cite_ref-fox2_arrest_1-0">{{cite news |title=Detroit City Councilman Scott Benson arrested in Southfield |url=https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/detroit-city-councilman-scott-benson-arrested-in-southfield |access-date=2025-04-08 |work=FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit) |date=June 30, 2014 |agency=myFOXDetroit.com Staff}}</ref>
<ref id="cite_ref-fox2_sentence_2-0">{{cite news |title=Detroit councilman Scott Benson receives jail sentence for DUI |url=https://www.fox2detroit.com/news/detroit-councilman-scott-benson-receives-jail-sentence-for-dui |access-date=2025-04-08 |work=FOX - 2 WJBK (Detroit) |date=January 22, 2015}}</ref>
</references>

Shri Thanedar

2025-04-08T18:49:18Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>"He is an egomaniac looking for attention. There's no grand political strategy here, other than to get elected. There's no ideology here."</blockquote>
[[File:Executive Connect (53188970699).jpg|thumb]]

== "Whichever party gives me the best chance": The party affiliation controversy ==
'''Summary:''' Shri Thanedar's 2018 Michigan gubernatorial campaign was marked by controversy over his political authenticity and business ethics. Despite self-branding as "the most progressive Democrat" in the race, multiple political consultants alleged that Thanedar initially didn't know which party to run with, telling them he would adopt whatever positions would help him win. His campaign was substantially self-funded, with Thanedar spending nearly $11.5 million of his personal fortune derived from the sale of his chemical testing businesses. These businesses themselves became campaign liabilities, with allegations ranging from abandoning laboratory animals during bankruptcy proceedings to overlooking dangerous substances in products his company tested. Though initially leading in some polls due to extensive advertising, Democratic establishment figures expressed alarm about his candidacy, with one consultant describing him as "an egomaniac looking for attention" with "no ideology." Thanedar ultimately placed third in the Democratic primary with 17.7% of the vote, behind Gretchen Whitmer and Abdul El-Sayed.

=== Details ===
In April 2018, ''The Intercept'' published an article in which four political consultants claimed that Thanedar was undecided about which party to run with when he first explored a gubernatorial bid in early 2017.<ref name=":0">Jilani, Zaid. "A Bernie-Branded Millionaire Is Leading the Democratic Race for Governor. He Almost Ran as a Republican, Consultants Say." ''The Intercept'', April 9, 2018.</ref> According to these sources, Thanedar considered running as a Republican, Democrat, or independent. Adrian Hemond, CEO of the bipartisan consulting firm Grassroots Midwest, stated that during a meeting Thanedar "said he didn't care" which party he ran with and wanted to choose "whichever side we thought he had the best chance to win on."<ref name=":0" />

Dan McMaster, a Republican consultant who attended the meeting with Hemond, claimed Thanedar appeared willing to adopt policy positions based on political expediency rather than conviction. Regarding abortion rights, McMaster stated that Thanedar "said he was comfortable with whatever position he needed to adopt to get the best chance to win."<ref name=":1">Marans, Daniel. "The Bizarro-World Trump Storming Michigan Politics." ''Politico'', July 31, 2018.</ref> On gun control and other issues, Hemond reported that Thanedar expressed similar flexibility in his positions.<ref name=":1" />

Joe DiSano, a Democratic consultant, similarly reported that Thanedar was initially uncertain about his party affiliation and claimed that DiSano had to explain to him why running as an independent would be impractical in Michigan.<ref name=":1" /> Rob Fowler, president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, also stated that Thanedar seemed undecided about his party affiliation during their early meetings.<ref name=":0" />

Thanedar denied these allegations, insisting that he had "always been a Democrat" and that he was being smeared by political opponents.<ref name=":1" /> However, emails obtained by ''Politico'' showed that Thanedar had personally reached out to both Democratic and Republican consultants in early 2017, apparently open to advice from both parties.<ref name=":1" /> In one email dated January 26, 2017, Thanedar personally contacted Hemond, McMaster, and Brian Began, sending them links to articles about his business success "as a way of introduction."<ref name=":1" />

Thanedar heavily self-financed his campaign, initially pledging $6 million of his personal fortune<ref name=":1" /> and ultimately spending nearly $11.5 million of his own money on the race.<ref name=":2">Marans, Daniel. "A Wealthy Opportunist Is Playing Michigan Progressives For Fools." ''HuffPost'', July 31, 2018.</ref> This massive self-funding allowed him to dominate television advertising among Democratic candidates for much of the primary campaign, beginning with a Super Bowl commercial in February 2018.<ref name=":1" /> Until June 2018, with less than two months until the primary, Thanedar was the only Democratic gubernatorial candidate airing television ads.<ref name=":1" />

McMaster, the Republican consultant, dismissed Thanedar after their meeting, saying, "I laughed when he walked out the door, because a fool and their money part ways often, and that was my impression."<ref name=":0" />

Critics argued that Thanedar's ability to buy extensive media coverage gave him an unfair advantage and allowed him to shape public perception without the vetting process that typically accompanies major party support. Kelly Collison, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Progressive Caucus, expressed concern that "he can buy this ad space and say that he is... the only progressive, or whatever—which is complete bullshit. That terrifies me because so many people are so busy that they don't have time to do all the research, and it's definitely possible he could buy this election."<ref name=":2" />

Despite branding himself as a "fiscally savvy Bernie" and claiming to be "the most progressive Democrat running for governor,"<ref name=":0" /> Thanedar's progressive credentials were called into serious question. Financial records showed that in March 2008, he donated $2,300 (the legal maximum) to Republican John McCain's presidential campaign.<ref name=":1" /> Thanedar claimed this donation was merely to attend an event where he could ask McCain about immigration policy, not an endorsement.<ref name=":2" />

Thanedar also donated $75 to conservative Republican Jim Talent's 2000 gubernatorial run in Missouri and $250 to Republican Bobby Jindal's 2003 gubernatorial run in Louisiana.<ref name=":1" /> When questioned about these contributions, Thanedar replied in an email, "In the last 10 years, I have given approximately 93 percent of my donations to Democrats."<ref name=":1" />

Critics also pointed to C-SPAN footage showing Thanedar attending a campaign rally for Republican Senator Marco Rubio during the 2016 presidential primaries, where he was seen "nodding and applauding the Florida senator's conservative message and attacks on Hillary Clinton"—and ultimately introducing himself to Rubio and asking for a photo.<ref name=":1" /> Additionally, Thanedar's self-published memoir, ''The Blue Suitcase'', venerated Ayn Rand's character Howard Roark from ''The Fountainhead'' as "an exemplar of American individualism"—a figure often associated with libertarian or conservative philosophy rather than progressive values.<ref name=":1" />

Democratic consultant Joe DiSano claimed that in private discussions, Thanedar expressed "disdain for 'progressives'" and "Bernie Sanders in particular," specifically objecting to Sanders's tax proposals.<ref name=":0" /> DiSano alleged that Thanedar was concerned about potentially paying high taxes on profits from selling his company under Sanders's tax plans, quoting Thanedar as saying "under Sanders, he would pay 90 percent of his profit."<ref name=":0" />

Despite claiming to have been a Sanders supporter in the 2016 primary, Thanedar made no financial contributions to Sanders's campaign, leading Collison to question, "I mean, you're a millionaire and Bernie was obviously the underdog. If you supported him, why would you not donate to him?"<ref name=":2" />

Despite his significant self-funding and early lead in some polls, Thanedar ultimately placed third in the Democratic primary on August 7, 2018, receiving 17.7% of the vote. Gretchen Whitmer won the nomination with 52.0%, while Abdul El-Sayed received 30.2%.<ref>"Michigan Primary Election Results." ''The New York Times'', August 7, 2018.</ref>

Following his loss in the gubernatorial primary, Thanedar remained involved in Michigan politics. In 2020, he successfully ran for state representative in Michigan's 3rd district (Detroit), winning the Democratic primary in a crowded field with just 35.1% of the vote and going on to win the general election in the heavily Democratic district.<ref>"Michigan State Representative District 3 Election Results." ''Ballotpedia'', November 3, 2020.</ref>

== Abandoned animals and spiked supplements: Business ethics controversies ==
'''Summary:''' Significant ethical controversies emerged during Shri Thanedar's gubernatorial campaign. These include:

* the 2010 abandonment of approximately 170 test animals (beagles and monkeys) at his AniClin laboratory after bankruptcy proceedings, which required rescue workers to climb fences to care for the animals until they could be adopted
* a 2013 incident where his company Avomeen allegedly failed to report the discovery of Viagra in an over-the-counter supplement to the FDA.
* a federal lawsuit claiming Thanedar fraudulently inflated his company's value before selling his majority stake for $20 million in 2016, funds he later used to finance his campaign.

Throughout these controversies, Thanedar maintained his innocence, blaming Bank of America for the animal situation and denying any wrongdoing in both the supplement testing and company valuation cases.

=== Details ===
During his gubernatorial campaign, Thanedar faced scrutiny over his business practices. In 2010, when one of his laboratories, AniClin Preclinical Services, was repossessed by Bank of America during bankruptcy proceedings, more than 170 beagles and monkeys used for chemical testing were left without proper arrangements for their care.<ref name="HuffPost">Daniel Marans, "Over 100 Dogs And Monkeys Were Rescued From Michigan Democrat's Shuttered Company", HuffPost, April 26, 2018.</ref> According to USA Today reports from the time, workers had to climb fences to feed and care for the animals until animal welfare organizations eventually arranged adoptions for them.<ref name="FreePress">Paul Egan, "Thanedar denies responsibility for beagles abandoned in testing lab in 2010", Detroit Free Press, 2018.</ref>

Local animal rights activists learned in June 2010 that 118 beagles were still stuck inside the facility. Two animal welfare groups teamed up to find homes for the beagles and were finally able to take them from the shuttered lab on July 4 to shelters, where they would be matched with adoptive families.<ref name="HuffPost" /> Even before the beagles were abandoned, they led lonely lives in small plexiglass crates where they were subject to toxicology tests. According to rescue workers, many of the dogs had never been outside before their rescue.<ref name="HuffPost" />

Becky Tegze, executive director of Pets Alive animal rescue, told the Free Press that when the beagles arrived at her facility, "they certainly were not emaciated dogs," though "some (of their) nails were overgrown." However, "at the time we were told former employees were jumping fences and going in and taking care of them," Tegze said.<ref name="FreePress" />

In addition to the dogs, the California-based group In Defense of Animals rescued 55 long-tailed macaque monkeys that had been left in the shuttered AniClin testing facility.<ref name="HuffPost" /> A July 25, 2010, report in the Eastern Express Times of Pennsylvania quoted Stephen Rene Tello, executive director of the Primarily Primates Sanctuary, as saying 25 male Java macaque monkeys looked pale and thin when they arrived at the sanctuary, and the stress had led many of them to pull out some of their hair.<ref name="FreePress" />

Thanedar denied responsibility, stating that the lab was under the control of Bank of America, which seized it when he declared bankruptcy. "I have no knowledge how well the bank took care of the animals," he said.<ref name="HuffPost" /> Thanedar confirmed he was the 100% owner and chairman of the board of AniClin, which was part of the Azopharma group of companies owned by Thanedar that were placed in receivership by Bank of America and liquidated in 2010 to settle debts of $24 million.<ref name="FreePress" /> He later issued a statement saying, "It is my understanding that Bank of America made arrangements to assign caretakers for the animals and secure homes for them, but those decisions came from the bank after I left the company."<ref name="HuffPost" />

In another controversy, an over-the-counter male enhancement supplement, S.W.A.G. ("Sex With A Grudge"), that Thanedar's company Avomeen tested in 2013, was later revealed to contain Viagra. An employee of Thanedar's told the Detroit News in March that he had notified Thanedar when he found the traces of Viagra in the drug, but Thanedar did not report it to the Food and Drug Administration. The employee then notified the FDA on his own.<ref name="HuffPost" />

Thanedar claimed that it was his obligation to test the drugs and inform his clients of the rules, not to inform the federal government about client misconduct. "We told them you have to report it. It's illegal to do that," Thanedar told HuffPost. "That was the extent of my obligation."<ref name="HuffPost" />

Thanedar also faced a federal lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Detroit, where attorneys for Avomeen Holdings alleged Thanedar made "fraudulent and misleading representations" about the chemical testing company's finances when he sold a majority stake in the business for about $20 million in November 2016.<ref name="DetroitNews">Detroit News, "Gubernatorial candidate Shri Thanedar sued over fraud claims", 2018.</ref> "Thanedar presented Avomeen as a company with a stable, consistent, and growing revenue profile," the lawsuit reads. "In reality, Avomeen's monthly revenues were inflated and highly variable."<ref name="DetroitNews" />

The lawsuit claimed the Ann Arbor Democrat was misleading in his presentation of the company and "successfully, but fraudulently" encouraged the buyers to pay more for his stake in the company than it was worth. In a text message to The Detroit News, Thanedar wrote: "I patently deny every claim contained in this document and intend to fight it...Because this is a pending legal matter, I am prohibited from saying more at this time."<ref name="DetroitNews" /> The lawsuit sought a jury trial and unspecified damages.

These controversies emerged as Thanedar had spent millions of dollars on campaign advertisements presenting himself as the most progressive candidate in the race.<ref name="HuffPost" /> Thanedar announced his campaign for governor in April and had since put millions of his own money into his campaign.<ref name="DetroitNews" />

== Unprecedented level of taxpayer-funded advertising ==
'''Summary:''' In 2023-2024, Rep. Shri Thanedar came under intense scrutiny for his office's unprecedented level of taxpayer-funded promotional spending, particularly as he faced a competitive primary challenge. The controversy highlighted Thanedar's continued pattern of using his personal and public resources for self-promotion in ways that raised ethical concerns.

=== Details ===
An investigation by The Detroit News in spring 2024 revealed that Thanedar was "flooding airwaves in the Detroit market with a whopping $789,000 in taxpayer-funded TV ads reserved for this month alone and another $40,000 in radio advertisements."<ref name=":3">Burke, Melissa Nann. "Detroit congressman Shri Thanedar spending big on TV ads, billboards using taxpayer funds." ''The Detroit News'', April 2024.</ref> These expenditures represented about 44% of Thanedar's entire $1.9 million office budget for the year.

Beyond the TV and radio ads, Thanedar's office spent at least $45,460 on billboards throughout his district, featuring his smiling face with messaging like "REACH CONGRESSMAN SHRI 24/7."<ref name=":4">Metzger, Bryan. "The questionable way lawmakers get taxpayers to fund borderline-political ads." ''Business Insider'', March 21, 2024.</ref> Records showed that in 2023, Thanedar led all 435 U.S. House members in spending on printing, reproduction, advertising and franked mail costs, totaling $553,000.<ref name=":3" /> His $327,000 expenditure on advertisements alone was approximately ten times the average $30,800 spent by House members who reported any ad expenses.<ref name=":3" />

Critics noted the suspicious timing of this massive advertising push. The TV and radio ads were set to air for five weeks in spring 2024, running right up to the edge of the blackout period for mass communications that starts 60 days before primary elections (June 7 for the August 6 primary).<ref name=":3" /> This timing coincided with Thanedar facing two high-profile primary challengers - former state Sen. Adam Hollier and Detroit City Council member Mary Waters.<ref name=":3" />

House records revealed that Thanedar's taxpayer-funded payments to billboard companies began in October 2023, after it had become clear that he would face a challenge from Hollier, whom Thanedar had previously defeated in the 2022 Democratic primary.<ref name=":4" />

Republican strategist Jamie Roe, who spent nearly 14 years as chief of staff to retired U.S. Rep. Candice Miller, called Thanedar's spending "a ridiculous amount of your budget to spend on the frank," adding, "That's just nothing but politics. I don't know how you hire quality staff if you use that much of your budget on franking... You can't have an effective team if you're blowing that much of your budget on self-promotion."<ref name=":3" />

Adam Hollier, Thanedar's primary challenger, criticized the incumbent for using "hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to promote himself while families across Wayne County struggle to pay the bills," calling it "an unprecedented and unethical use of our hard-earned money." Hollier suggested the House Ethics Committee should investigate the expenditures.<ref name=":3" />

==== Staffing concerns ====
Former staffers reported that Thanedar's excessive spending on self-promotion came at the expense of adequate office staffing, potentially impacting constituent services. While the average House office spent 78% of its budget on staff compensation in 2023, Thanedar spent just 38%.<ref name=":4" /> Meanwhile, he spent 31.4% on printing and reproduction, nearly ten times the House average of 3.4%.<ref name=":4" />

Two former staffers claimed that Thanedar had not hired enough staff to handle the increased constituent casework generated by his advertising blitz. Deaja Todd, who worked for Thanedar as a constituent advocate from January 2023 through February 2024, told The Detroit News, "We weren't able to do our jobs because we were so short-staffed, and the call volume was so high... In leaving, I felt horrible for my constituents because I know they really do need the help."<ref name=":3" />

==== Thanedar's defense ====
Thanedar defended his spending practices, attributing the high level of advertising to Michigan's 2022 redistricting, which created confusion about which representative served which areas. "My office received calls from constituents of neighboring congresswomen and vice versa," he told Business Insider. "To address this, we significantly ramped up our outreach efforts through various media."<ref name=":4" />

He further insisted the communications had proven effective, claiming his office had "quadrupled constituent calls" in the previous year and resolved 84% of more than 1,400 constituent cases.<ref name=":4" /> Thanedar maintained that "no one has yet complained about" his communications approach, stating, "People are telling me that in 20 years no congressperson has ever communicated like this before. People are loving it."<ref name=":3" />

== Hindu Nationalism Advocacy and Controversies ==
'''Summary:''' Thanedar has been criticized for his connections to Hindu nationalist groups and his support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. He has established a controversial Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain Congressional Caucus, escorted Modi during his address to Congress, and has aligned himself with Hindu right-wing advocacy organizations like the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA).<ref name=":5">Sakshi Venkatraman, NBC Asian America, "Civil rights groups denounce new Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain Congressional Caucus."</ref><ref name=":6">Richa Karmarkar, "Lawmaker's 'Dharma Caucus' stirs suspicion from Hindu and Sikh groups," October 18, 2023.</ref><ref name=":7">IMPACT, "Factsheet: Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA)."</ref> Thanedar has been associated with Hindu nationalist advocacy activities in the United States, including supporting controversial positions on issues like caste discrimination and defending Modi's government against criticism of its human rights record. He has been accused of working with Hindu right-wing advocacy organizations that target critics of Hindu nationalism and those who highlight the persecution of religious minorities in India.<ref name=":7" /><ref>ANI, "Hindu-Americans flag 'violence, bias against religion'," July 12, 2023.</ref>

=== Details ===
Thanedar has been identified as a "champion" of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is a self-proclaimed Hindu hardliner.<ref name=":8">Middle East Eye, "US politicians face heat over Hindu nationalist links and support for Modi," 2023.</ref> In June 2023, he was one of the lawmakers who escorted Modi when he visited Washington, D.C. to address a joint session of Congress, stating at the time: "I am very proud of PM Modi. He is enormously popular. I am looking forward to working with him to broaden and deepen our relationship."<ref name=":5" />

Thanedar has faced criticism from South Asian American civil rights groups for his role in forming a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain American Congressional Caucus (also called the "Dharma Caucus"). The caucus was initially labeled a "Hindu Caucus" according to a memo from his office, but was later expanded to include other Dharmic religions.<ref name=":6" /> Critics argue that the caucus was formed without consulting major groups representing those communities and may function as "a vehicle for Hindu nationalist policies."<ref name=":5" />

In February 2023, when Prime Minister Modi arrived in Washington to discuss U.S.-India relations, Thanedar expressed hope that then-President Donald Trump would cooperate with Modi rather than strain ties with "one of America's closest allies." He urged against imposing tariffs and engaging in trade wars that would "drive wedges between us and our allies and harm our position as the leader of the free world."<ref>"Trump should cooperate, not antagonize Modi", says Rep. Thanedar," 2023.</ref>

Thanedar has also been criticized for his support of Modi despite concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in India. Advocates for Muslim South Asians and those born into caste-oppressed communities have warned that Modi's rhetoric and policies have fomented Hindu nationalist sentiments and led to violence against minorities.<ref name=":5" />

In February 2024, Thanedar received criticism when the Metro Detroit chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) revealed they had voted to expel him more than a month prior because of his close relationship with Modi. The DSA claimed that "Thanedar's views are not, and have never been, representative of Detroit DSA," and described his later public renunciation of his DSA membership as "a selfish distraction."<ref name=":6" />

In July 2022, Thanedar was the only Indian American US lawmaker who attended a "Hindu advocacy day on Capitol Hill" organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA). CoHNA has been characterized as "a Marietta, Georgia-based Hindu right-wing advocacy organization known for targeting critics of Hindu nationalism and those who highlight the persecution of religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians in India." It has been accused of supporting "the discriminatory policies of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)" and engaging "in campaigns targeting academics and politicians who call attention to the dangers of Hindu nationalism."<ref name=":7" />

In October 2023, Muslim businessman Quaid Saifee of Detroit requested a refund of his $1,000 campaign donation to Thanedar after learning of the congressman's support for Modi. Saifee stated, "I did not want to donate to someone championing Modi and Hindutva in the US," referring to the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name=":8" />

Thanedar has also received substantial funding from pro-Israel lobbying groups while simultaneously maintaining ties with Hindu nationalist organizations. Since September 2023, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has donated over $96,000 to Thanedar's campaign, despite his previous co-sponsorship of a Michigan House resolution describing Israel as an "apartheid state" in 2021. Critics have noted ideological connections between Zionism and Hindutva (Hindu nationalism), suggesting that both movements are finding common ground in supporting certain American politicians.<ref>Pieter Friedrich, "Why the Israel lobby is supporting U.S. politicians friendly to India's," May 29, 2024.</ref>

== The File ==

Shri Thanedar

2025-04-08T18:46:13Z

Liability7973: /* "Abandoned animals and spiked supplements": Business ethics controversies */

<blockquote>"He is an egomaniac looking for attention. There's no grand political strategy here, other than to get elected. There's no ideology here."</blockquote>
[[File:Executive Connect (53188970699).jpg|thumb]]

== "Whichever party gives me the best chance": The party affiliation controversy ==
'''Summary:''' Shri Thanedar's 2018 Michigan gubernatorial campaign was marked by controversy over his political authenticity and business ethics. Despite self-branding as "the most progressive Democrat" in the race, multiple political consultants alleged that Thanedar initially didn't know which party to run with, telling them he would adopt whatever positions would help him win. His campaign was substantially self-funded, with Thanedar spending nearly $11.5 million of his personal fortune derived from the sale of his chemical testing businesses. These businesses themselves became campaign liabilities, with allegations ranging from abandoning laboratory animals during bankruptcy proceedings to overlooking dangerous substances in products his company tested. Though initially leading in some polls due to extensive advertising, Democratic establishment figures expressed alarm about his candidacy, with one consultant describing him as "an egomaniac looking for attention" with "no ideology." Thanedar ultimately placed third in the Democratic primary with 17.7% of the vote, behind Gretchen Whitmer and Abdul El-Sayed.

=== Details ===
In April 2018, ''The Intercept'' published an article in which four political consultants claimed that Thanedar was undecided about which party to run with when he first explored a gubernatorial bid in early 2017.<ref name=":0">Jilani, Zaid. "A Bernie-Branded Millionaire Is Leading the Democratic Race for Governor. He Almost Ran as a Republican, Consultants Say." ''The Intercept'', April 9, 2018.</ref> According to these sources, Thanedar considered running as a Republican, Democrat, or independent. Adrian Hemond, CEO of the bipartisan consulting firm Grassroots Midwest, stated that during a meeting Thanedar "said he didn't care" which party he ran with and wanted to choose "whichever side we thought he had the best chance to win on."<ref name=":0" />

Dan McMaster, a Republican consultant who attended the meeting with Hemond, claimed Thanedar appeared willing to adopt policy positions based on political expediency rather than conviction. Regarding abortion rights, McMaster stated that Thanedar "said he was comfortable with whatever position he needed to adopt to get the best chance to win."<ref name=":1">Marans, Daniel. "The Bizarro-World Trump Storming Michigan Politics." ''Politico'', July 31, 2018.</ref> On gun control and other issues, Hemond reported that Thanedar expressed similar flexibility in his positions.<ref name=":1" />

Joe DiSano, a Democratic consultant, similarly reported that Thanedar was initially uncertain about his party affiliation and claimed that DiSano had to explain to him why running as an independent would be impractical in Michigan.<ref name=":1" /> Rob Fowler, president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, also stated that Thanedar seemed undecided about his party affiliation during their early meetings.<ref name=":0" />

Thanedar denied these allegations, insisting that he had "always been a Democrat" and that he was being smeared by political opponents.<ref name=":1" /> However, emails obtained by ''Politico'' showed that Thanedar had personally reached out to both Democratic and Republican consultants in early 2017, apparently open to advice from both parties.<ref name=":1" /> In one email dated January 26, 2017, Thanedar personally contacted Hemond, McMaster, and Brian Began, sending them links to articles about his business success "as a way of introduction."<ref name=":1" />

Thanedar heavily self-financed his campaign, initially pledging $6 million of his personal fortune<ref name=":1" /> and ultimately spending nearly $11.5 million of his own money on the race.<ref name=":2">Marans, Daniel. "A Wealthy Opportunist Is Playing Michigan Progressives For Fools." ''HuffPost'', July 31, 2018.</ref> This massive self-funding allowed him to dominate television advertising among Democratic candidates for much of the primary campaign, beginning with a Super Bowl commercial in February 2018.<ref name=":1" /> Until June 2018, with less than two months until the primary, Thanedar was the only Democratic gubernatorial candidate airing television ads.<ref name=":1" />

McMaster, the Republican consultant, dismissed Thanedar after their meeting, saying, "I laughed when he walked out the door, because a fool and their money part ways often, and that was my impression."<ref name=":0" />

Critics argued that Thanedar's ability to buy extensive media coverage gave him an unfair advantage and allowed him to shape public perception without the vetting process that typically accompanies major party support. Kelly Collison, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Progressive Caucus, expressed concern that "he can buy this ad space and say that he is... the only progressive, or whatever—which is complete bullshit. That terrifies me because so many people are so busy that they don't have time to do all the research, and it's definitely possible he could buy this election."<ref name=":2" />

Despite branding himself as a "fiscally savvy Bernie" and claiming to be "the most progressive Democrat running for governor,"<ref name=":0" /> Thanedar's progressive credentials were called into serious question. Financial records showed that in March 2008, he donated $2,300 (the legal maximum) to Republican John McCain's presidential campaign.<ref name=":1" /> Thanedar claimed this donation was merely to attend an event where he could ask McCain about immigration policy, not an endorsement.<ref name=":2" />

Thanedar also donated $75 to conservative Republican Jim Talent's 2000 gubernatorial run in Missouri and $250 to Republican Bobby Jindal's 2003 gubernatorial run in Louisiana.<ref name=":1" /> When questioned about these contributions, Thanedar replied in an email, "In the last 10 years, I have given approximately 93 percent of my donations to Democrats."<ref name=":1" />

Critics also pointed to C-SPAN footage showing Thanedar attending a campaign rally for Republican Senator Marco Rubio during the 2016 presidential primaries, where he was seen "nodding and applauding the Florida senator's conservative message and attacks on Hillary Clinton"—and ultimately introducing himself to Rubio and asking for a photo.<ref name=":1" /> Additionally, Thanedar's self-published memoir, ''The Blue Suitcase'', venerated Ayn Rand's character Howard Roark from ''The Fountainhead'' as "an exemplar of American individualism"—a figure often associated with libertarian or conservative philosophy rather than progressive values.<ref name=":1" />

Democratic consultant Joe DiSano claimed that in private discussions, Thanedar expressed "disdain for 'progressives'" and "Bernie Sanders in particular," specifically objecting to Sanders's tax proposals.<ref name=":0" /> DiSano alleged that Thanedar was concerned about potentially paying high taxes on profits from selling his company under Sanders's tax plans, quoting Thanedar as saying "under Sanders, he would pay 90 percent of his profit."<ref name=":0" />

Despite claiming to have been a Sanders supporter in the 2016 primary, Thanedar made no financial contributions to Sanders's campaign, leading Collison to question, "I mean, you're a millionaire and Bernie was obviously the underdog. If you supported him, why would you not donate to him?"<ref name=":2" />

Despite his significant self-funding and early lead in some polls, Thanedar ultimately placed third in the Democratic primary on August 7, 2018, receiving 17.7% of the vote. Gretchen Whitmer won the nomination with 52.0%, while Abdul El-Sayed received 30.2%.<ref>"Michigan Primary Election Results." ''The New York Times'', August 7, 2018.</ref>

Following his loss in the gubernatorial primary, Thanedar remained involved in Michigan politics. In 2020, he successfully ran for state representative in Michigan's 3rd district (Detroit), winning the Democratic primary in a crowded field with just 35.1% of the vote and going on to win the general election in the heavily Democratic district.<ref>"Michigan State Representative District 3 Election Results." ''Ballotpedia'', November 3, 2020.</ref>

= Abandoned animals and spiked supplements: Business ethics controversies =
'''Summary:''' Significant ethical controversies emerged during Shri Thanedar's gubernatorial campaign. These include:

* the 2010 abandonment of approximately 170 test animals (beagles and monkeys) at his AniClin laboratory after bankruptcy proceedings, which required rescue workers to climb fences to care for the animals until they could be adopted
* a 2013 incident where his company Avomeen allegedly failed to report the discovery of Viagra in an over-the-counter supplement to the FDA.
* a federal lawsuit claiming Thanedar fraudulently inflated his company's value before selling his majority stake for $20 million in 2016, funds he later used to finance his campaign.

Throughout these controversies, Thanedar maintained his innocence, blaming Bank of America for the animal situation and denying any wrongdoing in both the supplement testing and company valuation cases.

=== Details ===
During his gubernatorial campaign, Thanedar faced scrutiny over his business practices. In 2010, when one of his laboratories, AniClin Preclinical Services, was repossessed by Bank of America during bankruptcy proceedings, more than 170 beagles and monkeys used for chemical testing were left without proper arrangements for their care.<ref name="HuffPost">Daniel Marans, "Over 100 Dogs And Monkeys Were Rescued From Michigan Democrat's Shuttered Company", HuffPost, April 26, 2018.</ref> According to USA Today reports from the time, workers had to climb fences to feed and care for the animals until animal welfare organizations eventually arranged adoptions for them.<ref name="FreePress">Paul Egan, "Thanedar denies responsibility for beagles abandoned in testing lab in 2010", Detroit Free Press, 2018.</ref>

Local animal rights activists learned in June 2010 that 118 beagles were still stuck inside the facility. Two animal welfare groups teamed up to find homes for the beagles and were finally able to take them from the shuttered lab on July 4 to shelters, where they would be matched with adoptive families.<ref name="HuffPost" /> Even before the beagles were abandoned, they led lonely lives in small plexiglass crates where they were subject to toxicology tests. According to rescue workers, many of the dogs had never been outside before their rescue.<ref name="HuffPost" />

Becky Tegze, executive director of Pets Alive animal rescue, told the Free Press that when the beagles arrived at her facility, "they certainly were not emaciated dogs," though "some (of their) nails were overgrown." However, "at the time we were told former employees were jumping fences and going in and taking care of them," Tegze said.<ref name="FreePress" />

In addition to the dogs, the California-based group In Defense of Animals rescued 55 long-tailed macaque monkeys that had been left in the shuttered AniClin testing facility.<ref name="HuffPost" /> A July 25, 2010, report in the Eastern Express Times of Pennsylvania quoted Stephen Rene Tello, executive director of the Primarily Primates Sanctuary, as saying 25 male Java macaque monkeys looked pale and thin when they arrived at the sanctuary, and the stress had led many of them to pull out some of their hair.<ref name="FreePress" />

Thanedar denied responsibility, stating that the lab was under the control of Bank of America, which seized it when he declared bankruptcy. "I have no knowledge how well the bank took care of the animals," he said.<ref name="HuffPost" /> Thanedar confirmed he was the 100% owner and chairman of the board of AniClin, which was part of the Azopharma group of companies owned by Thanedar that were placed in receivership by Bank of America and liquidated in 2010 to settle debts of $24 million.<ref name="FreePress" /> He later issued a statement saying, "It is my understanding that Bank of America made arrangements to assign caretakers for the animals and secure homes for them, but those decisions came from the bank after I left the company."<ref name="HuffPost" />

In another controversy, an over-the-counter male enhancement supplement, S.W.A.G. ("Sex With A Grudge"), that Thanedar's company Avomeen tested in 2013, was later revealed to contain Viagra. An employee of Thanedar's told the Detroit News in March that he had notified Thanedar when he found the traces of Viagra in the drug, but Thanedar did not report it to the Food and Drug Administration. The employee then notified the FDA on his own.<ref name="HuffPost" />

Thanedar claimed that it was his obligation to test the drugs and inform his clients of the rules, not to inform the federal government about client misconduct. "We told them you have to report it. It's illegal to do that," Thanedar told HuffPost. "That was the extent of my obligation."<ref name="HuffPost" />

Thanedar also faced a federal lawsuit filed in the U.S. District Court in Detroit, where attorneys for Avomeen Holdings alleged Thanedar made "fraudulent and misleading representations" about the chemical testing company's finances when he sold a majority stake in the business for about $20 million in November 2016.<ref name="DetroitNews">Detroit News, "Gubernatorial candidate Shri Thanedar sued over fraud claims", 2018.</ref> "Thanedar presented Avomeen as a company with a stable, consistent, and growing revenue profile," the lawsuit reads. "In reality, Avomeen's monthly revenues were inflated and highly variable."<ref name="DetroitNews" />

The lawsuit claimed the Ann Arbor Democrat was misleading in his presentation of the company and "successfully, but fraudulently" encouraged the buyers to pay more for his stake in the company than it was worth. In a text message to The Detroit News, Thanedar wrote: "I patently deny every claim contained in this document and intend to fight it...Because this is a pending legal matter, I am prohibited from saying more at this time."<ref name="DetroitNews" /> The lawsuit sought a jury trial and unspecified damages.

These controversies emerged as Thanedar had spent millions of dollars on campaign advertisements presenting himself as the most progressive candidate in the race.<ref name="HuffPost" /> Thanedar announced his campaign for governor in April and had since put millions of his own money into his campaign.<ref name="DetroitNews" />

= Unprecedented level of taxpayer-funded advertising =
'''Summary:''' In 2023-2024, Rep. Shri Thanedar came under intense scrutiny for his office's unprecedented level of taxpayer-funded promotional spending, particularly as he faced a competitive primary challenge. The controversy highlighted Thanedar's continued pattern of using his personal and public resources for self-promotion in ways that raised ethical concerns.

=== Details ===
An investigation by The Detroit News in spring 2024 revealed that Thanedar was "flooding airwaves in the Detroit market with a whopping $789,000 in taxpayer-funded TV ads reserved for this month alone and another $40,000 in radio advertisements."<ref name=":3">Burke, Melissa Nann. "Detroit congressman Shri Thanedar spending big on TV ads, billboards using taxpayer funds." ''The Detroit News'', April 2024.</ref> These expenditures represented about 44% of Thanedar's entire $1.9 million office budget for the year.

Beyond the TV and radio ads, Thanedar's office spent at least $45,460 on billboards throughout his district, featuring his smiling face with messaging like "REACH CONGRESSMAN SHRI 24/7."<ref name=":4">Metzger, Bryan. "The questionable way lawmakers get taxpayers to fund borderline-political ads." ''Business Insider'', March 21, 2024.</ref> Records showed that in 2023, Thanedar led all 435 U.S. House members in spending on printing, reproduction, advertising and franked mail costs, totaling $553,000.<ref name=":3" /> His $327,000 expenditure on advertisements alone was approximately ten times the average $30,800 spent by House members who reported any ad expenses.<ref name=":3" />

Critics noted the suspicious timing of this massive advertising push. The TV and radio ads were set to air for five weeks in spring 2024, running right up to the edge of the blackout period for mass communications that starts 60 days before primary elections (June 7 for the August 6 primary).<ref name=":3" /> This timing coincided with Thanedar facing two high-profile primary challengers - former state Sen. Adam Hollier and Detroit City Council member Mary Waters.<ref name=":3" />

House records revealed that Thanedar's taxpayer-funded payments to billboard companies began in October 2023, after it had become clear that he would face a challenge from Hollier, whom Thanedar had previously defeated in the 2022 Democratic primary.<ref name=":4" />

Republican strategist Jamie Roe, who spent nearly 14 years as chief of staff to retired U.S. Rep. Candice Miller, called Thanedar's spending "a ridiculous amount of your budget to spend on the frank," adding, "That's just nothing but politics. I don't know how you hire quality staff if you use that much of your budget on franking... You can't have an effective team if you're blowing that much of your budget on self-promotion."<ref name=":3" />

Adam Hollier, Thanedar's primary challenger, criticized the incumbent for using "hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to promote himself while families across Wayne County struggle to pay the bills," calling it "an unprecedented and unethical use of our hard-earned money." Hollier suggested the House Ethics Committee should investigate the expenditures.<ref name=":3" />

==== Staffing concerns ====
Former staffers reported that Thanedar's excessive spending on self-promotion came at the expense of adequate office staffing, potentially impacting constituent services. While the average House office spent 78% of its budget on staff compensation in 2023, Thanedar spent just 38%.<ref name=":4" /> Meanwhile, he spent 31.4% on printing and reproduction, nearly ten times the House average of 3.4%.<ref name=":4" />

Two former staffers claimed that Thanedar had not hired enough staff to handle the increased constituent casework generated by his advertising blitz. Deaja Todd, who worked for Thanedar as a constituent advocate from January 2023 through February 2024, told The Detroit News, "We weren't able to do our jobs because we were so short-staffed, and the call volume was so high... In leaving, I felt horrible for my constituents because I know they really do need the help."<ref name=":3" />

==== Thanedar's defense ====
Thanedar defended his spending practices, attributing the high level of advertising to Michigan's 2022 redistricting, which created confusion about which representative served which areas. "My office received calls from constituents of neighboring congresswomen and vice versa," he told Business Insider. "To address this, we significantly ramped up our outreach efforts through various media."<ref name=":4" />

He further insisted the communications had proven effective, claiming his office had "quadrupled constituent calls" in the previous year and resolved 84% of more than 1,400 constituent cases.<ref name=":4" /> Thanedar maintained that "no one has yet complained about" his communications approach, stating, "People are telling me that in 20 years no congressperson has ever communicated like this before. People are loving it."<ref name=":3" />

== Hindu Nationalism Advocacy and Controversies ==
'''Summary:''' Thanedar has been criticized for his connections to Hindu nationalist groups and his support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. He has established a controversial Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain Congressional Caucus, escorted Modi during his address to Congress, and has aligned himself with Hindu right-wing advocacy organizations like the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA).<ref name=":5">Sakshi Venkatraman, NBC Asian America, "Civil rights groups denounce new Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain Congressional Caucus."</ref><ref name=":6">Richa Karmarkar, "Lawmaker's 'Dharma Caucus' stirs suspicion from Hindu and Sikh groups," October 18, 2023.</ref><ref name=":7">IMPACT, "Factsheet: Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA)."</ref> Thanedar has been associated with Hindu nationalist advocacy activities in the United States, including supporting controversial positions on issues like caste discrimination and defending Modi's government against criticism of its human rights record. He has been accused of working with Hindu right-wing advocacy organizations that target critics of Hindu nationalism and those who highlight the persecution of religious minorities in India.<ref name=":7" /><ref>ANI, "Hindu-Americans flag 'violence, bias against religion'," July 12, 2023.</ref>

=== Details ===
Thanedar has been identified as a "champion" of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is a self-proclaimed Hindu hardliner.<ref name=":8">Middle East Eye, "US politicians face heat over Hindu nationalist links and support for Modi," 2023.</ref> In June 2023, he was one of the lawmakers who escorted Modi when he visited Washington, D.C. to address a joint session of Congress, stating at the time: "I am very proud of PM Modi. He is enormously popular. I am looking forward to working with him to broaden and deepen our relationship."<ref name=":5" />

Thanedar has faced criticism from South Asian American civil rights groups for his role in forming a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain American Congressional Caucus (also called the "Dharma Caucus"). The caucus was initially labeled a "Hindu Caucus" according to a memo from his office, but was later expanded to include other Dharmic religions.<ref name=":6" /> Critics argue that the caucus was formed without consulting major groups representing those communities and may function as "a vehicle for Hindu nationalist policies."<ref name=":5" />

In February 2023, when Prime Minister Modi arrived in Washington to discuss U.S.-India relations, Thanedar expressed hope that then-President Donald Trump would cooperate with Modi rather than strain ties with "one of America's closest allies." He urged against imposing tariffs and engaging in trade wars that would "drive wedges between us and our allies and harm our position as the leader of the free world."<ref>"Trump should cooperate, not antagonize Modi", says Rep. Thanedar," 2023.</ref>

Thanedar has also been criticized for his support of Modi despite concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in India. Advocates for Muslim South Asians and those born into caste-oppressed communities have warned that Modi's rhetoric and policies have fomented Hindu nationalist sentiments and led to violence against minorities.<ref name=":5" />

In February 2024, Thanedar received criticism when the Metro Detroit chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) revealed they had voted to expel him more than a month prior because of his close relationship with Modi. The DSA claimed that "Thanedar's views are not, and have never been, representative of Detroit DSA," and described his later public renunciation of his DSA membership as "a selfish distraction."<ref name=":6" />

In July 2022, Thanedar was the only Indian American US lawmaker who attended a "Hindu advocacy day on Capitol Hill" organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA). CoHNA has been characterized as "a Marietta, Georgia-based Hindu right-wing advocacy organization known for targeting critics of Hindu nationalism and those who highlight the persecution of religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians in India." It has been accused of supporting "the discriminatory policies of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)" and engaging "in campaigns targeting academics and politicians who call attention to the dangers of Hindu nationalism."<ref name=":7" />

In October 2023, Muslim businessman Quaid Saifee of Detroit requested a refund of his $1,000 campaign donation to Thanedar after learning of the congressman's support for Modi. Saifee stated, "I did not want to donate to someone championing Modi and Hindutva in the US," referring to the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name=":8" />

Thanedar has also received substantial funding from pro-Israel lobbying groups while simultaneously maintaining ties with Hindu nationalist organizations. Since September 2023, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has donated over $96,000 to Thanedar's campaign, despite his previous co-sponsorship of a Michigan House resolution describing Israel as an "apartheid state" in 2021. Critics have noted ideological connections between Zionism and Hindutva (Hindu nationalism), suggesting that both movements are finding common ground in supporting certain American politicians.<ref>Pieter Friedrich, "Why the Israel lobby is supporting U.S. politicians friendly to India's," May 29, 2024.</ref>

== The File ==

Shri Thanedar

2025-04-08T18:34:55Z

Liability7973:

<blockquote>"He is an egomaniac looking for attention. There's no grand political strategy here, other than to get elected. There's no ideology here."</blockquote>
[[File:Executive Connect (53188970699).jpg|thumb]]

== "Whichever party gives me the best chance": The party affiliation controversy ==
'''Summary''' Shri Thanedar's 2018 Michigan gubernatorial campaign was marked by controversy over his political authenticity and business ethics. Despite self-branding as "the most progressive Democrat" in the race, multiple political consultants alleged that Thanedar initially didn't know which party to run with, telling them he would adopt whatever positions would help him win. His campaign was substantially self-funded, with Thanedar spending nearly $11.5 million of his personal fortune derived from the sale of his chemical testing businesses. These businesses themselves became campaign liabilities, with allegations ranging from abandoning laboratory animals during bankruptcy proceedings to overlooking dangerous substances in products his company tested. Though initially leading in some polls due to extensive advertising, Democratic establishment figures expressed alarm about his candidacy, with one consultant describing him as "an egomaniac looking for attention" with "no ideology." Thanedar ultimately placed third in the Democratic primary with 17.7% of the vote, behind Gretchen Whitmer and Abdul El-Sayed.

=== Details ===
In April 2018, ''The Intercept'' published an article in which four political consultants claimed that Thanedar was undecided about which party to run with when he first explored a gubernatorial bid in early 2017.<ref name=":0">Jilani, Zaid. "A Bernie-Branded Millionaire Is Leading the Democratic Race for Governor. He Almost Ran as a Republican, Consultants Say." ''The Intercept'', April 9, 2018.</ref> According to these sources, Thanedar considered running as a Republican, Democrat, or independent. Adrian Hemond, CEO of the bipartisan consulting firm Grassroots Midwest, stated that during a meeting Thanedar "said he didn't care" which party he ran with and wanted to choose "whichever side we thought he had the best chance to win on."<ref name=":0" />

Dan McMaster, a Republican consultant who attended the meeting with Hemond, claimed Thanedar appeared willing to adopt policy positions based on political expediency rather than conviction. Regarding abortion rights, McMaster stated that Thanedar "said he was comfortable with whatever position he needed to adopt to get the best chance to win."<ref name=":1">Marans, Daniel. "The Bizarro-World Trump Storming Michigan Politics." ''Politico'', July 31, 2018.</ref> On gun control and other issues, Hemond reported that Thanedar expressed similar flexibility in his positions.<ref name=":1" />

Joe DiSano, a Democratic consultant, similarly reported that Thanedar was initially uncertain about his party affiliation and claimed that DiSano had to explain to him why running as an independent would be impractical in Michigan.<ref name=":1" /> Rob Fowler, president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, also stated that Thanedar seemed undecided about his party affiliation during their early meetings.<ref name=":0" />

Thanedar denied these allegations, insisting that he had "always been a Democrat" and that he was being smeared by political opponents.<ref name=":1" /> However, emails obtained by ''Politico'' showed that Thanedar had personally reached out to both Democratic and Republican consultants in early 2017, apparently open to advice from both parties.<ref name=":1" /> In one email dated January 26, 2017, Thanedar personally contacted Hemond, McMaster, and Brian Began, sending them links to articles about his business success "as a way of introduction."<ref name=":1" />

Thanedar heavily self-financed his campaign, initially pledging $6 million of his personal fortune<ref name=":1" /> and ultimately spending nearly $11.5 million of his own money on the race.<ref name=":2">Marans, Daniel. "A Wealthy Opportunist Is Playing Michigan Progressives For Fools." ''HuffPost'', July 31, 2018.</ref> This massive self-funding allowed him to dominate television advertising among Democratic candidates for much of the primary campaign, beginning with a Super Bowl commercial in February 2018.<ref name=":1" /> Until June 2018, with less than two months until the primary, Thanedar was the only Democratic gubernatorial candidate airing television ads.<ref name=":1" />

McMaster, the Republican consultant, dismissed Thanedar after their meeting, saying, "I laughed when he walked out the door, because a fool and their money part ways often, and that was my impression."<ref name=":0" />

Critics argued that Thanedar's ability to buy extensive media coverage gave him an unfair advantage and allowed him to shape public perception without the vetting process that typically accompanies major party support. Kelly Collison, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Progressive Caucus, expressed concern that "he can buy this ad space and say that he is... the only progressive, or whatever—which is complete bullshit. That terrifies me because so many people are so busy that they don't have time to do all the research, and it's definitely possible he could buy this election."<ref name=":2" />

Despite branding himself as a "fiscally savvy Bernie" and claiming to be "the most progressive Democrat running for governor,"<ref name=":0" /> Thanedar's progressive credentials were called into serious question. Financial records showed that in March 2008, he donated $2,300 (the legal maximum) to Republican John McCain's presidential campaign.<ref name=":1" /> Thanedar claimed this donation was merely to attend an event where he could ask McCain about immigration policy, not an endorsement.<ref name=":2" />

Thanedar also donated $75 to conservative Republican Jim Talent's 2000 gubernatorial run in Missouri and $250 to Republican Bobby Jindal's 2003 gubernatorial run in Louisiana.<ref name=":1" /> When questioned about these contributions, Thanedar replied in an email, "In the last 10 years, I have given approximately 93 percent of my donations to Democrats."<ref name=":1" />

Critics also pointed to C-SPAN footage showing Thanedar attending a campaign rally for Republican Senator Marco Rubio during the 2016 presidential primaries, where he was seen "nodding and applauding the Florida senator's conservative message and attacks on Hillary Clinton"—and ultimately introducing himself to Rubio and asking for a photo.<ref name=":1" /> Additionally, Thanedar's self-published memoir, ''The Blue Suitcase'', venerated Ayn Rand's character Howard Roark from ''The Fountainhead'' as "an exemplar of American individualism"—a figure often associated with libertarian or conservative philosophy rather than progressive values.<ref name=":1" />

Democratic consultant Joe DiSano claimed that in private discussions, Thanedar expressed "disdain for 'progressives'" and "Bernie Sanders in particular," specifically objecting to Sanders's tax proposals.<ref name=":0" /> DiSano alleged that Thanedar was concerned about potentially paying high taxes on profits from selling his company under Sanders's tax plans, quoting Thanedar as saying "under Sanders, he would pay 90 percent of his profit."<ref name=":0" />

Despite claiming to have been a Sanders supporter in the 2016 primary, Thanedar made no financial contributions to Sanders's campaign, leading Collison to question, "I mean, you're a millionaire and Bernie was obviously the underdog. If you supported him, why would you not donate to him?"<ref name=":2" />

Despite his significant self-funding and early lead in some polls, Thanedar ultimately placed third in the Democratic primary on August 7, 2018, receiving 17.7% of the vote. Gretchen Whitmer won the nomination with 52.0%, while Abdul El-Sayed received 30.2%.<ref>"Michigan Primary Election Results." ''The New York Times'', August 7, 2018.</ref>

Following his loss in the gubernatorial primary, Thanedar remained involved in Michigan politics. In 2020, he successfully ran for state representative in Michigan's 3rd district (Detroit), winning the Democratic primary in a crowded field with just 35.1% of the vote and going on to win the general election in the heavily Democratic district.<ref>"Michigan State Representative District 3 Election Results." ''Ballotpedia'', November 3, 2020.</ref>

== "Abandoned animals and spiked supplements": Business ethics controversies ==
During his gubinitorial campaign, Thanedar faced scrutiny over his business practices. In 2010, when one of his laboratories, AniClin Preclinical Services, was repossessed by Bank of America during bankruptcy proceedings, more than 170 beagles and monkeys used for chemical testing were left without proper arrangements for their care.<ref name=":1" /> According to USA Today reports from the time, workers had to climb fences to feed and care for the animals until animal welfare organizations eventually arranged adoptions for them.<ref name=":2" />

Anna Wilson, a former employee of Best Friends Animal Society who coordinated the test animals' adoption, confirmed to HuffPost that "those animals were abandoned in there" and that the lab closed "without any plan to take care of the animals."<ref name=":2" /> Thanedar reportedly attempted to have the animals sold to other testing facilities to recoup money during the bankruptcy process, contradicting his public claims that he fought to have them placed in sanctuaries.<ref name=":2" />

In another controversy, Thanedar's company Avomeen was found to have overlooked serious issues in products it tested. In October 2013, Harvard Medical School researchers found that Craze, a sports supplement that Avomeen had tested and approved, contained a methamphetamine-like stimulant never before studied in humans.<ref name=":2" /> In 2014, Avomeen allegedly ignored reports from an employee who discovered traces of Viagra in an over-the-counter male enhancement supplement called S.W.A.G. ("Sex With A Grudge"). The employee later revealed that he quit the firm after his entreaties to report the finding to the Food and Drug Administration were ignored.<ref name=":2" />

Thanedar also faced an ongoing federal lawsuit alleging he made "fraudulent and misleading claims" about the value of his company Avomeen before selling his majority stake to a Chicago private equity firm for approximately $20 million in 2016.<ref name=":1" /> This sale provided the personal wealth that funded his gubernatorial campaign.

= Unprecedented level of taxpayer-funded advertising =
'''Summary''' In 2023-2024, Rep. Shri Thanedar came under intense scrutiny for his office's unprecedented level of taxpayer-funded promotional spending, particularly as he faced a competitive primary challenge. The controversy highlighted Thanedar's continued pattern of using his personal and public resources for self-promotion in ways that raised ethical concerns.

=== Details ===
An investigation by The Detroit News in spring 2024 revealed that Thanedar was "flooding airwaves in the Detroit market with a whopping $789,000 in taxpayer-funded TV ads reserved for this month alone and another $40,000 in radio advertisements."<ref name=":3">Burke, Melissa Nann. "Detroit congressman Shri Thanedar spending big on TV ads, billboards using taxpayer funds." ''The Detroit News'', April 2024.</ref> These expenditures represented about 44% of Thanedar's entire $1.9 million office budget for the year.

Beyond the TV and radio ads, Thanedar's office spent at least $45,460 on billboards throughout his district, featuring his smiling face with messaging like "REACH CONGRESSMAN SHRI 24/7."<ref name=":4">Metzger, Bryan. "The questionable way lawmakers get taxpayers to fund borderline-political ads." ''Business Insider'', March 21, 2024.</ref> Records showed that in 2023, Thanedar led all 435 U.S. House members in spending on printing, reproduction, advertising and franked mail costs, totaling $553,000.<ref name=":3" /> His $327,000 expenditure on advertisements alone was approximately ten times the average $30,800 spent by House members who reported any ad expenses.<ref name=":3" />

Critics noted the suspicious timing of this massive advertising push. The TV and radio ads were set to air for five weeks in spring 2024, running right up to the edge of the blackout period for mass communications that starts 60 days before primary elections (June 7 for the August 6 primary).<ref name=":3" /> This timing coincided with Thanedar facing two high-profile primary challengers - former state Sen. Adam Hollier and Detroit City Council member Mary Waters.<ref name=":3" />

House records revealed that Thanedar's taxpayer-funded payments to billboard companies began in October 2023, after it had become clear that he would face a challenge from Hollier, whom Thanedar had previously defeated in the 2022 Democratic primary.<ref name=":4" />

Republican strategist Jamie Roe, who spent nearly 14 years as chief of staff to retired U.S. Rep. Candice Miller, called Thanedar's spending "a ridiculous amount of your budget to spend on the frank," adding, "That's just nothing but politics. I don't know how you hire quality staff if you use that much of your budget on franking... You can't have an effective team if you're blowing that much of your budget on self-promotion."<ref name=":3" />

Adam Hollier, Thanedar's primary challenger, criticized the incumbent for using "hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars to promote himself while families across Wayne County struggle to pay the bills," calling it "an unprecedented and unethical use of our hard-earned money." Hollier suggested the House Ethics Committee should investigate the expenditures.<ref name=":3" />

==== Staffing concerns ====
Former staffers reported that Thanedar's excessive spending on self-promotion came at the expense of adequate office staffing, potentially impacting constituent services. While the average House office spent 78% of its budget on staff compensation in 2023, Thanedar spent just 38%.<ref name=":4" /> Meanwhile, he spent 31.4% on printing and reproduction, nearly ten times the House average of 3.4%.<ref name=":4" />

Two former staffers claimed that Thanedar had not hired enough staff to handle the increased constituent casework generated by his advertising blitz. Deaja Todd, who worked for Thanedar as a constituent advocate from January 2023 through February 2024, told The Detroit News, "We weren't able to do our jobs because we were so short-staffed, and the call volume was so high... In leaving, I felt horrible for my constituents because I know they really do need the help."<ref name=":3" />

==== Thanedar's defense ====
Thanedar defended his spending practices, attributing the high level of advertising to Michigan's 2022 redistricting, which created confusion about which representative served which areas. "My office received calls from constituents of neighboring congresswomen and vice versa," he told Business Insider. "To address this, we significantly ramped up our outreach efforts through various media."<ref name=":4" />

He further insisted the communications had proven effective, claiming his office had "quadrupled constituent calls" in the previous year and resolved 84% of more than 1,400 constituent cases.<ref name=":4" /> Thanedar maintained that "no one has yet complained about" his communications approach, stating, "People are telling me that in 20 years no congressperson has ever communicated like this before. People are loving it."<ref name=":3" />

== Hindu Nationalism Advocacy and Controversies ==

=== Summary ===
Shri Thanedar, a Democratic congressman representing Michigan's 13th district, has been criticized for his connections to Hindu nationalist groups and his support for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. He has established a controversial Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain Congressional Caucus, escorted Modi during his address to Congress, and has aligned himself with Hindu right-wing advocacy organizations like the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA).<ref name=":5">Sakshi Venkatraman, NBC Asian America, "Civil rights groups denounce new Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain Congressional Caucus."</ref><ref name=":6">Richa Karmarkar, "Lawmaker's 'Dharma Caucus' stirs suspicion from Hindu and Sikh groups," October 18, 2023.</ref><ref name=":7">IMPACT, "Factsheet: Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA)."</ref> Thanedar has been associated with Hindu nationalist advocacy activities in the United States, including supporting controversial positions on issues like caste discrimination and defending Modi's government against criticism of its human rights record. He has been accused of working with Hindu right-wing advocacy organizations that target critics of Hindu nationalism and those who highlight the persecution of religious minorities in India.<ref name=":7" /><ref>ANI, "Hindu-Americans flag 'violence, bias against religion'," July 12, 2023.</ref>

=== Details ===
Thanedar has been identified as a "champion" of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is a self-proclaimed Hindu hardliner.<ref name=":8">Middle East Eye, "US politicians face heat over Hindu nationalist links and support for Modi," 2023.</ref> In June 2023, he was one of the lawmakers who escorted Modi when he visited Washington, D.C. to address a joint session of Congress, stating at the time: "I am very proud of PM Modi. He is enormously popular. I am looking forward to working with him to broaden and deepen our relationship."<ref name=":5" />

Thanedar has faced criticism from South Asian American civil rights groups for his role in forming a Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Jain American Congressional Caucus (also called the "Dharma Caucus"). The caucus was initially labeled a "Hindu Caucus" according to a memo from his office, but was later expanded to include other Dharmic religions.<ref name=":6" /> Critics argue that the caucus was formed without consulting major groups representing those communities and may function as "a vehicle for Hindu nationalist policies."<ref name=":5" />

In February 2023, when Prime Minister Modi arrived in Washington to discuss U.S.-India relations, Thanedar expressed hope that then-President Donald Trump would cooperate with Modi rather than strain ties with "one of America's closest allies." He urged against imposing tariffs and engaging in trade wars that would "drive wedges between us and our allies and harm our position as the leader of the free world."<ref>"Trump should cooperate, not antagonize Modi", says Rep. Thanedar," 2023.</ref>

Thanedar has also been criticized for his support of Modi despite concerns about the treatment of religious minorities in India. Advocates for Muslim South Asians and those born into caste-oppressed communities have warned that Modi's rhetoric and policies have fomented Hindu nationalist sentiments and led to violence against minorities.<ref name=":5" />

In February 2024, Thanedar received criticism when the Metro Detroit chapter of the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) revealed they had voted to expel him more than a month prior because of his close relationship with Modi. The DSA claimed that "Thanedar's views are not, and have never been, representative of Detroit DSA," and described his later public renunciation of his DSA membership as "a selfish distraction."<ref name=":6" />

In July 2022, Thanedar was the only Indian American US lawmaker who attended a "Hindu advocacy day on Capitol Hill" organized by the Coalition of Hindus of North America (CoHNA). CoHNA has been characterized as "a Marietta, Georgia-based Hindu right-wing advocacy organization known for targeting critics of Hindu nationalism and those who highlight the persecution of religious minorities, particularly Muslims and Christians in India." It has been accused of supporting "the discriminatory policies of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)" and engaging "in campaigns targeting academics and politicians who call attention to the dangers of Hindu nationalism."<ref name=":7" />

In October 2023, Muslim businessman Quaid Saifee of Detroit requested a refund of his $1,000 campaign donation to Thanedar after learning of the congressman's support for Modi. Saifee stated, "I did not want to donate to someone championing Modi and Hindutva in the US," referring to the Hindu nationalist ideology.<ref name=":8" />

Thanedar has also received substantial funding from pro-Israel lobbying groups while simultaneously maintaining ties with Hindu nationalist organizations. Since September 2023, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) has donated over $96,000 to Thanedar's campaign, despite his previous co-sponsorship of a Michigan House resolution describing Israel as an "apartheid state" in 2021. Critics have noted ideological connections between Zionism and Hindutva (Hindu nationalism), suggesting that both movements are finding common ground in supporting certain American politicians.<ref>Pieter Friedrich, "Why the Israel lobby is supporting U.S. politicians friendly to India's," May 29, 2024.</ref>

== The File ==

Main Page

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Liability7973: /* Special Collections */

313files.org is a public archive documenting Detroit's political and economic elite.

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