News Summary
Detroit’s upcoming mayoral primary election will see nine candidates aiming to succeed Mayor Mike Duggan, who is running for governor. Key issues include education reform, community safety, and economic development. With a focus on challenges in the education system, candidates have diverse platforms. The primary will determine the top two candidates for the general election. Voter turnout is expected to be low, emphasizing the importance of participation. This election is critical for shaping Detroit’s future in education and community welfare.
Detroit is set to hold its mayoral primary election on August 5, 2025, with nine candidates vying to succeed incumbent Mayor Mike Duggan, who has been in office since January 2014 and is now running for governor of Michigan. The primary will narrow the field to the top two candidates, who will proceed to the general election in November.
Education has taken center stage in this election cycle, with a significant focus on issues such as creating cohesion between district and charter schools, reducing chronic absenteeism, and enhancing access to after-school and technical education programs. Candidates running for mayor have indicated a growing need to address the challenges facing Detroit’s schools, including low academic performance and high rates of student absenteeism. Many young residents have also expressed concerns about their safety amidst these prevalent educational and community issues.
The candidates include:
- Jonathan Barlow: A business leader dedicated to community activism, targeting economic growth and a united Detroit.
- James Craig: The former police chief, advocating for public safety, economic development, education, and youth empowerment, and has previously run for state governor and U.S. Senate.
- Fred Durhal III: Currently serving on the City Council and a former state legislator, focusing on neighborhood stabilization and reducing property taxes.
- Joel Haashiim: A businessman promoting better quality of life and active community organization.
- Saunteel Jenkins: Former City Council president and CEO of a nonprofit, emphasizing after-school programs, childcare, affordable housing, and public safety.
- Solomon Kinloch: Pastor of Triumph Church, who prioritizes job creation, education, and neighborhood improvements.
- Todd Perkins: Founder of a law firm, advocating for unity in addressing public safety and education issues.
- Mary Sheffield: The current City Council president, focusing her campaign on economic development, educational reform, public safety, and affordable housing.
- DaNetta Simpson: Running for mayor for the third time, previously seeking a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives.
In terms of campaign funding, Sheffield is leading with approximately $1.3 million raised, followed by Jenkins, who has about $574,000, and Kinloch, who has raised around $408,000. The candidates have also garnered endorsements from various organizations and publications, with Sheffield receiving support from a prominent local newspaper and a labor union, Jenkins from another major news outlet, and Durhal from several Michigan mayors.
Detroit boasts over 518,000 registered voters, although the voter turnout for the primary election is expected to be around 14%. In addition to the mayoral race, the primary will also feature other municipal positions, but the mayoral candidates are anticipated to draw the most attention. Polls will close at 8 p.m. ET on election day, making it imperative for voters to plan accordingly to ensure their voices are heard in this crucial decision.
The upcoming primary election represents a pivotal moment for Detroit as it looks to choose a new leader who will shape the future of the city, particularly concerning its education system and the wellbeing of its young residents. With the candidates presenting varied platforms focused on addressing education and community safety, the outcome will play a significant role in determining the direction of Detroit in the coming years.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
James Craig Launches Mayoral Campaign Focused on Public Safety
Gun Violence Claims Lives in Detroit Over the Weekend
Jonathan Barlow’s Vision for Detroit: Addressing Homelessness and Empowering Youth
Detroit Faces Voter Turnout Crisis Ahead of Election
Unresolved Estate Issues for Retired Detroit Police Chief
Detroit’s Mayoral Primary: A Turning Point for the City
Detroit Prepares for Mayoral Primary Election
City Council Candidates Address Key Issues in Detroit Forum
Candidates Prioritize Housing Solutions in Detroit Mayoral Race
Significant Fundraising in Detroit Mayoral Race Revealed
Additional Resources
- CBS News: Detroit Mayoral Candidates 2025 Primary Election
- Detroit Free Press: Detroit Mayoral Primary Race Candidates
- The New York Times: Detroit Mayor Election
- WXYZ: What to Expect in Detroit’s Mayoral Primary
- AP News: Detroit Mayor Election
- Wikipedia: Detroit
- Google Search: Detroit Mayoral Election 2025
- Google Scholar: Detroit Mayor Election 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Detroit
- Google News: Detroit Mayoral Election
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.
