On August 27th, 2025, Will Lawrence announced his bid for Congress in Michigan’s 7th congressional district. Deshawn Bailey stood just a few inches behind Lawrence while he spoke at the podium. Bailey did 14 years in prison for repeatedly raping his 12-year-old half-sister. The incident is not the first time that Lawrence has embraced controversial figures, as he has campaigned with far-left streamer Hasan Piker.

Deshawn Bailey was released from prison in 2024 after serving 14 years. Less than a year later, he joined the “Rent Is Too Damn High” organizing coalition in Michigan. Prior to organizing, he was serving his term for the sexual abuse of his 12-year-old half-sister. Many of the assaults took place when Bailey was over 18, and his victim was younger than 13. Bailey, along with Lawrence are founding members of Lansing’s Rent is Too Damn High chapter.”

The Washington Free Beacon found several images over multiple months, including Lawrence and Bailey. According to voting records, the two of them live less than a block apart. Will Lawrence has made controversial comments prior to running for office, including saying “fuck the nuclear family” and advocating for the abolition of marriage. His opponent, Tom Barrett has already made a post about the relationship.

Michigan’s 7th Congressional District is one of the most competitive in the country. Sitting Congressman Tom Barrett won the seat by roughly 3.5% in 2024. Prior to that race, Barrett lost to Elissa Slotkin narrowly in 2022. This race will be massive in deciding which party holds power in the 2027-2028 U.S. House of Representatives session.