Ask the expert: The significance of the Detroit mayoral race

Detroit voters will decide a new mayor on Nov. 4, 2025, after the current mayor, Mike Duggan, announced he would not seek re-election and, instead, run for governor of Michigan. Following a primary with nine candidates, the race is down to Mary Sheffield and Solomon Kinloch, who both raised significant funds and have been sparring back and forth.

While Sheffield held a significant lead in primary voting results, both candidates are expected to ramp up their campaigns to convince Detroiters they are the best choice for the city and its future.

Meghan Wilson is an assistant professor at Michigan State University’s Department of Political Science. Her research involves the intersection of public policy, urban development and race. As a scholar of urban cities, she has a keen interest in Detroit’s future. Here, she answers questions about the mayoral race and why it matters.

Why is this mayoral race significant?

Detroit’s upcoming election for its next mayor holds immense significance, marking a pivotal moment in the city’s political landscape. This transition signifies a shift in Detroit’s political dynamics, and the next mayor must navigate the challenges of the ongoing recovery. Moreover, the incumbent mayor faces a vastly different political environment, characterized by reduced federal resources and shifting federal priorities. Whoever assumes the role at the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center in January must bring a well-vetted team and a comprehensive plan to address the city’s pressing issues.

What issues will the next mayor have to confront?

Duggan is leaving the city in a strong position, but the next mayor needs a clear vision for development, sustainability and climate action, housing, and workforce development. They must also be willing to work with a council that will be very different and unknown. The next mayor will have to manage Lansing partnerships more effectively to provide state resources to Detroit residents. This will be a challenging job, and the people of Detroit need to work to elect the best person and then hold them accountable.

In what ways will the next mayor need to work with the federal government?

Detroit is currently in a strong position due to Mayor Duggan’s strong relationship with the previous federal administration. Navigating federal relationships is crucial for any mayor of a U.S. city, notably so in matters relating to building affordable housing, health care subsidies, industrial regulation and regulating navigable waters. The hope is that the governor will intervene to mitigate any pushback.

What is expected in terms of voter turnout for this election?

Detroit’s history of electoral decline suggests that turnout will likely be less than 20%. However, don’t be alarmed by this number, as residents and community organizations have numerous nonelectoral avenues to hold people accountable. The elected official must prioritize rebuilding trust within the city and the region.

Why should non-Detroiters care about this race?

Detroit, Michigan’s most populous city, plays a pivotal role in shaping the entire region. Its leaders and residents — both Detroiters and those in the surrounding metro area — closely monitor this election as it sets the stage for the entire state. Detroit’s actions have far-reaching economic, social and political consequences that impact the entire region.