Mary Sheffield Makes History as Detroit’s First Female Mayor

BREAKING: City Council President Mary Sheffield has been elected as Detroit’s first female mayor, defeating prominent pastor Rev. Solomon Kinloch in a decisive victory on November 4, 2025. Sheffield’s election marks a historic moment for the city, as she prepares to take office in January, succeeding three-term Mayor Mike Duggan, who is running for Michigan governor.

Sheffield, who has served as council president since 2022, expressed gratitude to voters in her victory speech, emphasizing her commitment to listen to all Detroit residents. “I am here to listen to you, to fight for you and to serve you,” she stated. “Because, at the end of the day, we all want the same thing, a Detroit that works for everyone.”

The election results come amid a transformative period for Detroit, which has seen significant improvements following its exit from the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history in 2014. Under Duggan’s leadership, the city has achieved 12 consecutive years of balanced budgets and experienced historically low violent crime rates. Recent U.S. Census data indicates that Detroit’s population now stands at 645,705, reflecting a growth of nearly 12,500 residents since May 2024.

Sheffield’s priorities include enhancing education for children, improving public safety, and uplifting neighborhoods. “My commitment is to build on the foundation that has been laid, by expanding opportunities and making sure that Detroit’s progress reaches every block and every family,” she declared during her campaign.

Former Mayor Duggan, who endorsed Sheffield, praised her leadership potential. “Our city’s progress is in very good hands,” he affirmed. “I know she and her team will make sure it not only continues, but expands.”

In his concession speech, Kinloch acknowledged the need for inclusive investments across all of Detroit, stating, “You can’t make all of the investments downtown. It has to reach the whole town.” He stressed the importance of civic engagement and action on critical issues such as affordable housing and crime.

Detroit now faces a pivotal moment as Sheffield prepares to lead the city towards a brighter future. The community’s hopes and aspirations rest on her shoulders as she aims to ensure that the ongoing revitalization benefits every resident.

As the nation watches, the urgent question remains: How will Sheffield’s leadership transform Detroit in the coming months? Stay tuned for updates on this groundbreaking mayoral journey.