U.S. Rep. Hansen Clarke rips unnamed opponent for raising questions about his Mother's race

DETROIT (WXYZ) - U.S . Representative Hansen Clarke blasted an unnamed opponent in the race for the new 14th Congressional District for raising questions about his mother's race.

He maintains his mother was African-American.

Clarke declined to identify the opponent he believes is behind the attack.

"They can't undercut the support in the community, so they go after my dead parents," Clarke told reporters moments after receiving the endorsement of the Fannie Lou Hamer Political Action Committee.

Clarke's campaign staffers released a statement that read, in part, "Due to the use of racist rhetoric and race-baiting by certain candidates in the 14th Congressional District race, Hansen Clarke For Congress will not participate in any more debates at this time.  These political tactics are insulting and offensive to our voters."

Others Democrats in the race include U.S. Rep. Gary Peters, Southfield Mayor Brenda Lawrence, retired Detroit Magistrate Bob Costello, and former State lawmaker Mary Waters.

The newly drawn 14th Congressional district includes a portion of Detroit, the Grosse Pointes, Hamtramck, Royal Oak Township, Oak Park, Southfield, Lathrup Village, Farmington Hills, West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake Village, Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake and Pontiac.

The primary is August 7th.