Mary Sheffield Makes History as Detroit’s First Female Mayor

Detroit is set to welcome a new era of leadership as City Council President Mary Sheffield has been elected the city’s newest mayor, making history as the first woman to hold the office. Her victory on November 4th marks a significant moment for the city, building on years of progress.

A Historic Victory for Detroit

Mary Sheffield, at 38 years old, successfully defeated popular megachurch pastor Rev. Solomon Kinloch in the general election. Sheffield, who was first elected to the City Council in 2013 at the age of 26 and has served as council president since 2022, will take office in January. She succeeds three-term Mayor Mike Duggan, who announced last year he would not seek reelection and is now running for Michigan governor as an independent.

Sheffield’s Vision for a Unified Detroit

In her victory speech, Sheffield extended her gratitude to all voters, promising to listen, fight, and serve for “a Detroit that works for everyone.” Her priorities include focusing on educating Detroit’s children, continuing to improve public safety, and enhancing life in the neighborhoods. She has committed to expanding opportunities and strengthening neighborhoods, ensuring Detroit’s progress reaches every block and every family.

Building on a Foundation of Progress

Sheffield inherits a city that has seen dramatic improvements since its 2014 exit from municipal bankruptcy. Under Mayor Mike Duggan’s leadership, Detroit has achieved 12 consecutive years of balanced budgets, significantly improved city services—including shorter police response times, better public lighting, and blight elimination—and boasts historically low violent crime numbers.

Furthermore, Detroit’s population has begun to grow again after decades of decline. Earlier this year, the U.S. Census estimated the city’s population at 645,705, a gain of 12,487 residents since May 2024. This turnaround from a 1950s peak of 1.8 million demonstrates the city’s resilience and renewed vitality.

The Road Ahead: Community Engagement and Continued Growth

While Sheffield is poised to lead Detroit into its next chapter, the campaign highlighted ongoing community concerns. Rev. Solomon Kinloch, in his concession speech, emphasized the need for investments to reach beyond downtown to the “whole town,” pushing for more action on affordable housing, crime, and support for neighborhoods. These points underscore critical areas where the new administration will need to focus.

Former Mayor Duggan publicly endorsed Sheffield, stating, “Our city’s progress is in very good hands and I know she and her team will make sure it not only continues, but expands.” This sentiment reflects a shared commitment to Detroit’s future.

Key Figures in Detroit’s Mayoral Transition

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Mayoral Term

• Who is Detroit’s new mayor?
  Mary Sheffield, former City Council President, has been elected as Detroit’s first female mayor.
• When will Mayor Sheffield take office?
  She is scheduled to take office in January.
• What are Mayor Sheffield’s top priorities?
  Her stated priorities include focusing on education for Detroit’s children, improving public safety, and strengthening neighborhoods.
• What is the city’s current state as she takes office?
  Detroit has achieved 12 consecutive years of balanced budgets, improved city services, reduced violent crime, and seen recent population growth following its 2014 bankruptcy exit.
• Who did she defeat in the election?
  She defeated popular megachurch pastor Rev. Solomon Kinloch in the November 4th general election.

As Detroit embarks on this new chapter, staying informed and engaged in local government will be more important than ever to ensure the city’s continued growth and success for all residents.

Mary Sheffield elected first female mayor of Detroit