News Summary
As Detroit gears up for its primary election, nine candidates are vying for the mayoral position following incumbent Mayor Mike Duggan’s decision not to seek re-election. Early voting kicks off soon, and candidates are actively engaging with the community to share their economic growth plans, particularly regarding support for minority-owned businesses. Key issues, including public safety and funding strategies, are being debated as the election approaches, marking a significant turning point for the city’s leadership.
Detroit is gearing up for a significant political shift as voters prepare to cast their ballots in the primary election on August 5, 2025. With incumbent Mayor Mike Duggan not seeking re-election after three terms, nine candidates are competing for the mayor’s position. This election will be crucial not only for determining Detroit’s next mayor but also for filling key legislative and executive offices that will shape the future of the city.
Early voting is set to commence on July 26, 2025, and absentee ballots will be mailed to voters starting July 10, providing ample opportunity for participation. As the race heats up, several organizations held a forum where six of the candidates shared insights into their support for local minority-owned businesses, showcasing their plans for economic growth in Detroit. The participating candidates included Jonathan Barlow, Fred Durhal III, Joel Haashiim, Saunteel Jenkins, Todd Perkins, and Mary Sheffield.
Each candidate presented a selection of local businesses they believe are vital to Detroit’s economy. Barlow highlighted establishments like Three Thirteen and Ali’s Korner Takeout, which bolster community initiatives. Durhal stressed the necessity of supporting minority businesses such as In Harmony Cafe and Brew-ti-ful Coffee House, driving home the message of patronizing local enterprises. Haashiim focused on Water Station and The Jamaican Pot, advocating for economic empowerment through increased local patronage.
In addition to dining establishments, Jenkins recommended Westwood Market and emphasized her enjoyment of community-driven eateries. Perkins pointed out Moor Clothing & Tailoring as a significant business and described Cafe Noir as a gathering space that fosters community interaction. Sheffield praised Cooking With Que, a premier vegan restaurant in the city, and proposed the creation of a Legacy Business Fund aimed at assisting longstanding businesses in Detroit.
The candidates’ in-depth discussions stressed their commitment to optimizing funding and support for small businesses, particularly addressing concerns with the Community Reinvestment Act’s impact on local lending practices. Each candidate articulated their strategies to promote economic growth while aiming to reduce disparities in business funding. A notable emphasis was placed on ensuring inclusion for Black-owned businesses and minority contractors in their plans.
As the campaign progresses, Fred Durhal III and Saunteel Jenkins are actively utilizing internal polling to strengthen their fundraising efforts and demonstrate electoral viability. Durhal has recently polled at 13% following a presentation of his qualifications, suggesting he could be a competitive contender with adequate funding. Meanwhile, Jenkins’ campaign indicated she might be positioned for a strong showing, with polling suggesting she could secure 16% of the vote after detailing her platform to potential voters.
Debates among candidates have revealed contrasting viewpoints on critical issues, particularly concerning public safety policies. Kinloch, one of the candidates, advocated for reallocating funds from police settlements. Additionally, there has been a focus on correcting tax over-assessments that negatively affect Detroit residents, leading to various proposed compensation methods to alleviate these burdens.
Mary Sheffield has been actively appealing to LGBTQ voters, emphasizing the significance of community support as a pillar of her campaign strategy. She plans to establish an LGBTQ commission aimed at enhancing representation and advocacy for this demographic within the city’s governance.
As Detroit moves closer to the August primary, voters will also be deciding on city council positions and local ballot initiatives regarding education and public safety funding. Candidates are increasingly vocal about their concerns regarding potential cuts to federal funding that could impact critical city departments, including housing and public safety, especially in light of anticipated changes at the federal administration level.
The upcoming election has spurred candidates to engage meaningfully with community organizations and residents, solidifying their campaign positions and striving to garner support as the election date approaches. With growing interest in the candidates’ business support plans and their broader political platforms, Detroit is poised for a defining moment in its mayoral history.
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Additional Resources
- BridgeDetroit: Detroit Election Tracker 2025
- ClickOnDetroit: What Michigan Voters Should Know Ahead of the 2025 August Primary
- Detroit News: Endorsements for Detroit Mayor and City Council
- Detroit Free Press: 2025 Detroit City Council Endorsements
- BridgeDetroit: 2025 Voter Guide – How to Participate in Detroit Elections
- Wikipedia: Detroit
- Google Search: Detroit 2025 elections
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Detroit
- Google News: Detroit elections 2025
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.
