Mary Sheffield wins Detroit mayoral election
City Council President Mary Sheffield has been elected as Detroit’s next mayor, becoming the first woman to lead the city. She won Tuesday’s general election against the well-known Rev. Solomon Kinloch, pastor of a large local megachurch.
Transition of leadership
Sheffield will assume office in January, succeeding three-term Mayor Mike Duggan. Duggan announced last year that he would not run again and is now campaigning for Michigan governor as an independent, aiming to replace the outgoing Democrat Gretchen Whitmer.
Detroit’s progress under Duggan
Detroit has seen significant recovery since emerging from its 2014 municipal bankruptcy. Under Duggan’s leadership, city services improved notably, with quicker police responses, expanded public lighting, and extensive blight reduction. Detroit has also maintained 12 consecutive balanced budgets, marking a period of financial stability.
Population growth and safer streets
The city reports historically low levels of violent crime and modest population growth after decades of decline. As of May 2024, Detroit’s population was estimated at 645,705 — an increase of 12,487 residents. According to the mayor’s office, this includes nearly 6,800 new residents in 2024 and about 5,700 previously undercounted between 2021 and 2023.
“Detroit’s story is one of steady progress — financial recovery, safer neighborhoods, and renewed confidence.”
Author’s Summary
Mary Sheffield’s historic win marks a new chapter for Detroit, following Mike Duggan’s decade of urban renewal, financial recovery, and civic growth.