News Summary
Detroit is gearing up for its mayoral primary election on August 5, featuring nine candidates competing to replace Mike Duggan. Saunteel Jenkins has emerged as a strong contender, focusing on community engagement and public safety. Jenkins aims to lower taxes and expand local programs while facing challenges with voter engagement and potential changes in polling locations. The election outcome will significantly impact Detroit’s economic and social landscape.
Detroit is poised for a significant political shift as the city prepares for its mayoral primary election on August 5, with nine candidates vying to succeed Mike Duggan, who is stepping down to run for governor. The outcome of this election will determine the direction Detroit takes in addressing various challenges, including economic development, public safety, and community engagement.
Among the candidates, Saunteel Jenkins has emerged as a key contender, endorsed for her capability to continue the progress established under Duggan’s administration. Jenkins, aged 54, brings a wealth of experience to the table, with five years as a member of the Detroit City Council following a decade as CEO of The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW). Her agenda includes a commitment to involve community voices in the redevelopment of Detroit’s seven districts and to collaborate with Detroit School Superintendent Nikolai Vitti to enhance after-school tutoring programs.
Jenkins has prioritized lowering high property taxes and income taxes that deter residents, aiming to make Detroit a more attractive place to live. Furthermore, having lost her brother to gun violence in 1991, she is dedicated to addressing the issue of public safety, planning to expand the successful Community Violence Intervention Program, which has shown promise in reducing gun-related crimes. However, her proposal to introduce a Detroit-only sales tax to compensate for lost revenue from property tax reductions has sparked significant debate among her competitors.
The primary election is crucial, with voter turnout predictions ranging from 13% to 18%. Recent reports indicate that voter engagement is low, with only 8% of registered voters participating in early voting as of the latest counts. In addition, a logistical challenge has arisen with changes to polling places affecting approximately 44,000 voters across 35 precincts due to plumbing issues.
As of now, Mary Sheffield appears to be leading the race with 34%, consolidating a broad base of support from labor unions and prominent business figures. Meanwhile, Jenkins and Rev. Solomon Kinloch are locked in a close contest for second place. Kinloch, known for his community-centric approach as the senior pastor of Triumph Church, has faced financial disadvantages compared to some of his rivals, yet remains focused on his campaign’s message and outreach.
The candidates have been actively engaging with voters on various pressing issues affecting Detroit, such as affordable housing and public safety. The campaign activities and forums showcase the differing strategies and visions among candidates, highlighting tensions regarding their respective experiences and levels of commitment to local matters.
With a diverse field of candidates, each presenting unique perspectives and solutions for Detroit’s challenges, the primary election on August 5 will be a critical turning point for the city. As voters prepare to make their decisions, the implications of this election extend beyond the immediate future, shaping the trajectory of Detroit for years to come.
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Additional Resources
- Detroit News: Our Primary Endorsement for Detroit Mayor
- Detroit Free Press: Saunteel Jenkins and the Detroit Board of Ethics
- Arab American News: Mary Sheffield in the Lead for Detroit Mayoral Primary
- WXYZ: What to Expect in Detroit’s Mayoral Primary
- Click On Detroit: Meet the Candidates in the Detroit Mayoral Debate
- Wikipedia: Detroit
- Google Search: Detroit Mayor Election 2025
