Nationwide — In a landmark victory, Mary Sheffield has been elected as the first female mayor in Detroit’s 323-year history. The 37-year-old City Council President, known for her lifelong dedication to Detroit’s communities, defeated fellow Democrat and pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr. in Tuesday’s general election. The Associated Press called the race at 9:20 p.m., projecting Sheffield to win with an overwhelming 77% of the vote compared to Kinloch’s 21%.
According to Michigan Advance, Sheffield’s victory marks a historic moment for the Motor City, long recognized as a center of African American culture and resilience. Her win not only shatters a gender barrier but also underscores a generational shift in leadership, as she prepares to succeed outgoing Mayor Mike Duggan, who is running as an independent candidate for governor in 2026.
Born and raised on Detroit’s west side, Sheffield comes from a prominent family of activists and community leaders. She is the daughter of Reverend Horace Sheffield III, a noted civil-rights leader, and the granddaughter of labor icon Horace Sheffield Jr. In 2013, at just 26 years old, she became the youngest person ever elected to the Detroit City Council. Nearly a decade later, in 2022, she again made history as the youngest City Council President in Detroit’s history.
Throughout her tenure, Sheffield has championed issues like affordable housing, economic inclusion, and tenants’ rights. She has also fought for policies to ensure that Detroit’s redevelopment benefits residents in every neighborhood, particularly those in historically underserved Black communities. Her “People’s Platform” has earned her a reputation as a voice for equity, transparency, and community-driven progress.
During her campaign, Sheffield promised to make Detroit “a city that works for everyone.” She has pledged to focus on expanding homeownership opportunities, improving public safety, and boosting small business growth across all districts. Her administration, she said, will reflect the spirit of Detroit—bold, innovative, and unapologetically inclusive.
As she prepares to take office, Sheffield’s victory represents more than a political milestone—it’s a powerful symbol of change and empowerment for women and African Americans across Michigan. Her leadership ushers in a new chapter for Detroit, one that honors its history while charting a path toward a more equitable future.