Michigan state Sen. Mallory McMorrow, a Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, has come under scrutiny for accumulating approximately $3,000 in unpaid water and sewer charges at her Royal Oak residence while campaigning on water affordability issues.

McMorrow, who describes herself as a progressive Democrat, is competing in the Democratic primary for the Senate seat with less than three months remaining before the election. The unpaid bills were accrued at her $1.28 million home in Royal Oak, Michigan.

The candidate has been actively promoting water affordability as part of her policy platform, making the unpaid utility charges a point of political interest. The timing of the revelation comes as McMorrow seeks to distinguish herself in what she has characterized as a competitive primary race.

In recent media appearances, McMorrow has acknowledged the strength of her Republican opponents, referring to at least one GOP rival as a "formidable competitor" as she makes her case for the upper chamber seat.

The Michigan Senate race is drawing increased attention as the Democratic primary intensifies. McMorrow currently serves in the Michigan state Senate and is positioning herself as a progressive voice in the contest for federal office.