Detroit, September 16, 2025
News Summary
A contentious debate between Detroit mayoral candidates Mary Sheffield and Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. primarily revolves around their approaches to public safety. With rising concerns within the community, both candidates are presenting their records and proposals ahead of the November election. Sheffield defends her support for public safety initiatives, while Kinloch seeks to emphasize the need for new measures. With a notable decrease in violent crime reported, the candidates’ contrasting strategies could impact the city’s future safety.
Detroit Mayoral Candidates Clash over Public Safety Strategies Ahead of November Election
Detroit is currently witnessing a heated debate between two mayoral candidates, Mary Sheffield and Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr., concerning their strategies and records on public safety. With the general election scheduled for November 4, 2025, public safety has emerged as a crucial issue, particularly in light of rising concerns from the community.
As of mid-September 2024, Detroit has recorded 125 homicides this year, marking a 12% decline compared to the same period in the previous year. Additionally, the city reported 203 homicides in 2024, a decrease from 252 in 2023. Overall violent crime across Detroit has fallen by roughly 7.5% since 2021, suggesting some progress in addressing safety concerns.
Candidate Sheffield, who has served on the City Council for 11 years, is defending her record amid criticisms from Kinloch. Kinloch’s campaign is challenging Sheffield by pointing out her votes against expanding the ShotSpotter gunshot detection contract, as well as her opposition to Mayor Duggan’s pandemic relief spending plan. Kinloch argues that Sheffield’s actions have not adequately addressed youth violence, which remains a pressing issue in the city.
In response to these criticisms, Sheffield asserts that she has supported every major public safety initiative presented to the council. She emphasizes her commitment to community violence intervention programs designed to address the root causes of crime. Sheffield has also been active in hosting community events and awareness campaigns aimed at reducing gun violence, particularly during Gun Violence Awareness Month. Furthermore, she voted in favor of raising police officer salaries—an initiative authorized by the council in 2022.
Kinloch, on the other hand, is proposing a series of new initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety. He advocates for hiring more community police officers and mental health co-responders, establishing safe after-school spaces for youth, and investing in comprehensive job training programs. His campaign includes a program called Sanctuary Saturdays, which provides food, tutoring, and mentoring for youth, fostering a supportive environment aimed at reducing violence and crime.
Kinloch’s campaign manager has publicly criticized Sheffield’s voting history, arguing that she has not prioritized essential investments in public safety. In light of these concerns, Kinloch’s team has intensified voter outreach efforts, particularly aiming to engage underrepresented voters in Detroit.
Sheffield currently enjoys the endorsement of Mayor Mike Duggan, who credits federal prosecutors and community violence intervention efforts for the decline in homicides. In contrast, Kinloch’s campaign is leveraging local community networks to connect with voters directly and relay his vision for a safer Detroit.
Both candidates faced off in the primary elections, with Sheffield receiving 52% of the vote, significantly ahead of Kinloch, who garnered 17%. To further connect with the electorate, Sheffield and Kinloch have arranged town hall meetings across Detroit throughout September.
As Detroit approaches the general election, public safety will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of discussions among candidates and voters alike. The contrasting strategies and records of both Sheffield and Kinloch will play a significant role in shaping the future of public safety in the city.
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Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
