Detroit City Council President Mary Sheffield announces mayoral campaign
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After months of speculation, City Council President Mary Sheffield announced her bid last night to become Detroit's first female mayor.
Why it matters: Sheffield has the city hall credentials, name recognition and network of supporters to be considered a frontrunner in next year's race.
State of play: The IBEW Local 58 union hall near downtown was packed with a few hundred people for the event.
- Before Sheffield took the stage, the crowd heard a performance from the Detroit Youth Choir and speeches from about 15 supporters, including local religious leaders, Sheffield's family members, block club representatives, business owners, union leaders and celebrity Judge Greg Mathis.
- They touted Sheffield's Detroit roots, her accomplishments on City Council and her strong community ties.
What they're saying: Sheffield said her campaign will emphasize unity and prosperity for all Detroiters.
- "I am inspired by … the neighbors that I've met who mowed the vacant lots, who stayed when everyone else left and banded together to keep their blocks strong. Like me, they believe in a Detroit in which the growth of our city reaches every block and every commercial corridor."
Flashback: In 2013 at age 26, Sheffield became the youngest person ever elected to the Detroit City Council.
Between the lines: The 2025 mayoral election will be the city's first since 2013 without Mayor Mike Duggan, the three-term mayor who just last week announced he's running for governor in 2026 as an independent.
- Sheffield briefly thanked Duggan last night for his partnership and commended his dedication to improving the city.
What's next: Other potential candidates for mayor could announce their campaigns in the coming weeks.
- Those considering a run include former City Council President Saunteel Jenkins and Council member Fred Durhal.