Exposed: Sunrise Co-Founder’s 2013 Arrest for Resisting Police
Michigan House Candidate’s Past Arrest and "Defund Police" Posts Stir Controversy in Key Race
Who Is William Lawrence?
William Lawrence is running for the U.S. House of Representatives in Michigan. He’s trying to unseat Republican Rep. Tom Barrett in a race that could help decide which party controls the House.
Important Point: This is one of the most closely watched congressional races in the country. With very few seats truly up for grabs, a win here could tip the balance of power in Washington.
Quick Background on Lawrence
- Co-founded the Sunrise Movement (a youth-led climate action group)
- Won the Democratic primary against establishment-backed candidates
- Defeated Matt Maasdam and Bridget Brink (who previously served as U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine)
- Backed by progressive groups and figures like Sen. Bernie Sanders and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez
The 2013 Pipeline Protest Arrest
What Happened?
In 2013, Lawrence participated in a protest against the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline — a 645-mile pipeline carrying crude oil and natural gas from Wisconsin to Ontario, passing through Michigan.
The Protest Details
- Lawrence and others chained themselves to machinery at the pipeline site
- Police had to cut them off the equipment
- They were arrested without incident after being freed
- Charges filed: Trespassing + Resisting and obstructing a police officer
The Pipeline Context
- Purpose: Helps meet U.S. energy needs
- Controversy: Environmental groups and Indigenous tribes oppose it because it runs through tribal lands and poses spill risks to the Great Lakes
The "Defund the Police" Social Media Posts
What Lawrence Posted (2020)
| Date | Platform | Message |
|---|---|---|
| May 2020 | X (formerly Twitter) | "Defund the Police!" |
| June 2020 | X | Called specifically to defund Lansing, Michigan police |
Lawrence’s Current Position (2026)
Important Point: Lawrence now says his views have evolved. In a statement to Fox News Digital, he said:
"I don’t support defunding the police. I follow the lead of first responders and gun violence prevention advocates I have met with here in the district, who support increased funding for youth programs, mental health resources, and community violence intervention, working in collaboration with law enforcement."
How Lawrence Addresses His Past
Legal Resolution
- Conviction expunged under Michigan state law
- This means the record was legally cleared/sealed
Public Comments
Lawrence posted an Instagram video earlier this year addressing the arrest:
"I took a stand against energy company Enbridge. Was it righteous? Absolutely. Was it wise? Perhaps not."
"The fact is, they were back operating that afternoon, while my collaborators and I faced legal consequences for years. I wouldn’t advise you do what I did, but my conviction remains, and you can always count on me to fight for pure Michigan and our water."
Political Affiliation Change
- Was a member of Democratic Socialists of America (DSA)
- Has since left the organization as the general election approaches
Republican Attacks and Campaign Response
NRCC Statement (National Republican Congressional Committee)
"Socialist felon William Lawrence is a radical far-left liberal who puts his extreme climate agenda ahead of common sense and the priorities of hardworking Michiganders. Lawrence’s extreme agenda makes one thing clear: he is far too radical for Mid-Michigan and can’t be trusted to put Michigan families first."
— Zach Bannon, NRCC Spokesman
Key Attack Points
- "Socialist felon" label (referencing DSA membership + expunged conviction)
- "Radical far-left liberal" branding
- Climate agenda framed as "extreme"
- Past "Defund Police" posts used to question judgment
The Bigger Political Picture
- Republicans are defending a slim House majority
- Historical trend: Party in power usually loses seats in midterms
- GOP hope: "Far-left insurgency" in Democratic Party might help Republicans buck that trend
Summary
William Lawrence, a progressive activist and Sunrise Movement co-founder, won a surprising Democratic primary victory in a critical Michigan House district. His campaign now faces scrutiny over:
- A 2013 arrest for chaining himself to pipeline equipment (conviction since expunged)
- 2020 social media posts calling to "Defund the Police" (he now disavows this position)
- Past membership in Democratic Socialists of America (he has since left)
- Aggressive Republican attacks labeling him a "socialist felon" and "too radical for Michigan"
The race against incumbent Rep. Tom Barrett is considered a toss-up that could determine control of the U.S. House. Lawrence emphasizes his evolved positions on policing and his commitment to environmental protection, while Republicans hammer his progressive past.
FAQ
What is the Enbridge Line 5 pipeline?
Answer: It’s a 645-mile pipeline transporting crude oil and natural gas from Wisconsin to Ontario, Canada, passing through Michigan. It’s controversial because it crosses the Straits of Mackinac (connecting Lake Michigan and Lake Huron) and runs through Indigenous tribal lands. Supporters say it’s vital for energy security; opponents fear environmental disasters.
What does "expunged" mean?
Answer: When a conviction is expunged, it’s legally sealed or erased from public record. In Michigan, certain convictions can be expunged after a waiting period if the person meets requirements. It means Lawrence doesn’t have a public criminal record from this arrest.
What is the Sunrise Movement?
Answer: A youth-led political organization advocating for aggressive climate action, including the Green New Deal. They focus on electing climate champions and pressuring politicians through protests and primary challenges.
Why is this Michigan race so important?
Answer: With Republicans holding a narrow House majority, every competitive seat matters. This district is one of the few true toss-ups nationwide. The winner could help determine which party controls the House, setting the legislative agenda for the next two years.
Has Lawrence actually changed his positions, or is this just for the election?
Answer: That’s a matter of debate. Lawrence says his views evolved through conversations with community leaders and first responders. Critics (including the NRCC) argue he’s moderating only to win a general election in a swing district. Voters will decide which version they believe.