Every week, HOH gets to know a Member of Congress better through a series of five fun questions. This week Rep. Hansen Clarke (D-Mich.) talks about finding inspiration in the Detroit Lions and Tigers — no bears — and that Mercury is his car brand of choice.

Q: Are you more excited about the Tigers or Lions?

A: Both. I have always been inspired by the Tigers, especially the 1968 championship team. That team showed me that you can win despite the odds being stacked against you. The Lions represent how Detroit is making a comeback.

Q: What’s the best new car?

A: Detroit is producing great new cars like never before. However, my favorite car is the Mercury Marauder. My dad was a UAW Ford employee, and I wish I would have kept my 2005 Grand Marquis and just added 20-inch wheels to it.

Q: Do you have a favorite painter?

A: My favorite painters are Kehinde Wiley and Mark Rothko.

Q: Did the upperclassmen in the House haze the incoming youngsters?

A: No one more than Democratic Reps. Edolphus Towns, Gregory Meeks and Brian Higgins, who are all from New York. I think I’ve been vindicated because the Tigers beat the Yankees in the playoffs.

Q: What’s your favorite food? 

A: Home-cooked fresh vegetables … and Detroit coney dogs!