Rashida Tlaib

DETROIT, MI - U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib secured the Democratic nomination for Michigan’s 12th Congressional District on Tuesday, defeating challengers Shanelle Jackson and Byron Nolen, according to the Associated Press.

The AP called the race with an estimated 14.4% of the vote counted.

At the time the race was called, Tlaib had received 13,414 votes, or 64.2%, compared with 5,355 votes (25.6%) for Jackson and 2,127 votes (10.2%) for Nolen.

Tlaib entered the race as the overwhelming favorite, holding a significant fundraising advantage over her Democratic challengers.

Federal Election Commission records showed she raised more than $2.2 million during the current election cycle and reported nearly $4.7 million cash on hand through March 31. Neither Jackson nor Nolen reported significant federal fundraising activity.

The Democratic primary drew attention because of Tlaib’s national profile as one of Congress’ most prominent progressive lawmakers.

Oakland University political science professor David Dulio previously said Tlaib’s fundraising strength likely discouraged stronger challengers from entering the race.

“One thing we know from years of study is that when somebody has a big campaign war chest like Congresswoman Tlaib, that scares off a lot of potential challengers,” Dulio previously told MLive.

Tlaib, first elected to Congress in 2018, has represented the Detroit-area district through multiple redistricting cycles and has become one of Michigan’s highest-profile members of Congress.

She has drawn national attention for her progressive policy positions and outspoken views.

With Tuesday’s victory, Tlaib advances to the Nov. 3 general election, where she will face Republican James Hooper, who ran unopposed in the GOP primary.

Vote totals at the time the AP called the race:

Rashida Tlaib (incumbent): 13,414 votes (64.2%)

Shanelle Jackson: 5,355 votes (25.6%)

Byron Nolen: 2,127 votes (10.2%)

Election results will continue to be updated as additional ballots are counted.