A Michigan Democrat’s impeachment crusade against President Donald Trump has raised eyebrows, given his past mercenary allegiances.
The Daily Caller reported that Shri Thanedar, a self-styled progressive, filed seven articles of impeachment on April 28, 2025, while his political history reveals a chameleon-like approach to ideology.
Thanedar’s attempt to oust Trump spotlights his shape-shifting political career. In 2018, he campaigned for Michigan governor, branding himself a “fiscally savvy” ally of Bernie Sanders.
Yet, consultants who met him then tell a different story, exposing a man unbound by party loyalty or clear convictions.
Before his gubernatorial run, Thanedar met with political strategists in 2017. He expressed openness to running as an independent or even a Republican, depending on which path offered the best shot at victory.
It turns out that Thanedar is a political grifter with no principle outside whatever leads to him accumulating political power and remaining in office.
Consultants found Thanedar’s stance on key issues, like abortion, vague at best. Republican strategist Dan McMaster claimed Thanedar admitted to being pro-life during their talks.
In contrast, Democratic consultant Joe DiSano, after meetings in early 2017, concluded Thanedar was firmly pro-choice, highlighting his inconsistent messaging.
Thanedar’s response to these claims lacks clarity. He confirmed a meeting with consultants but dodged specifics, saying he withheld his positions at the time. Such evasiveness fuels skepticism about his commitment to the progressive ideals he now champions.
His actions in 2016 further blur his political identity. Thanedar attended a Marco Rubio campaign rally in Iowa, appearing enthusiastic as Rubio criticized Hillary Clinton. Consultant DiSano noted that Thanedar seemed particularly taken with Rubio, a stark contrast to his later progressive posturing.
Thanedar’s campaign donations add to the confusion. In 2007, Federal Election Commission records show he gave $2,300 to both Hillary Clinton and Republican Senator John McCain’s presidential campaigns. This dual support suggests a calculated approach, hedging bets rather than standing firm on principle.
Despite claiming nearly $29,000 in donations to Democrats, Thanedar’s past contributions to Republicans muddy his progressive credentials.
His willingness to back opposing candidates reflects a troubling lack of ideological grounding. Americans deserve leaders who stand for something, not those who shift with the political winds.
Thanedar’s 2018 gubernatorial bid ended in defeat, placing third in the Democratic primary behind Gretchen Whitmer and Abdul El-Sayed. Undeterred, he ran for Congress in Michigan’s 13th district in 2022, winning and securing reelection in 2024. His persistence paid off, but his past continues to haunt him.
The impeachment effort itself reeks of political theater. Thanedar’s use of taxpayer funds for a billboard promoting his anti-Trump campaign, reported on April 29, 2025, smacks of self-promotion. Such misuse of public resources erodes trust in elected officials.
Consultants who worked with Thanedar paint a damning picture. Adrian Hemond recalled Thanedar’s indifference to party affiliation, quoting him as saying he’d run on whichever side offered the best chance to win. This opportunism clashes with the values of hardworking Americans who prioritize integrity over ambition.
Dan McMaster’s claim that Thanedar admitted to being pro-life during their meeting further complicates his progressive facade. Thanedar countered, insisting he is “100% pro-choice” and pointing to his voting record. Yet, his refusal to address past contradictions leaves voters questioning his sincerity.
Joe DiSano’s experience with Thanedar reveals deeper issues. DiSano, who parted ways with Thanedar after their 2017 meetings, described him as dismissive of progressives and Bernie Sanders in particular. Thanedar denied this, claiming admiration for Sanders, but the conflicting accounts erode his credibility.
As Thanedar faces two primary challengers in 2026, his impeachment push and murky past could jeopardize his political future. His story serves as a cautionary tale for voters wary of politicians who prioritize power over principle. In an era craving authentic leadership, Thanedar’s record suggests he’s more showman than statesman.