Detroit, We Need You at the Polls: Everything You Need to Know to Vote in 2025

August 4, 2025

Detroit faces a significant political transition in 2025 with its first mayoral election in over a decade, alongside every City Council seat, city clerk, and Board of Police Commissioners position being contested. The election comes at a critical time as remaining American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds—less than $100 million of Detroit's original $826 million allocation—must be allocated before they expire next year. Despite the importance of these races, voter turnout has been concerningly low in recent elections, with just 24% participation in 2021's mayoral race and only 18% in 2023's citywide races.

Who is affected

Detroit residents, particularly Black Detroiters
Young people, renters, and low-income families who face barriers to civic participation
Communities dependent on programs funded by ARPA dollars
Residents concerned about housing, public safety, education, and infrastructure

What action is being taken

Early voting is being conducted at eight locations across the city including the City Clerk's Office and multiple community centers
Michigan is requiring cities to offer at least nine days of early voting for eight hours each day
Election officials are implementing security measures to protect ballot integrity, including sealed tabulators and bipartisan review processes
Same-day voter registration is available up to Election Day with proper documentation

Why it matters

This election will determine how the remaining ARPA funds (less than $100 million) are allocated before they expire
New leadership will need to develop sustainable funding for programs after ARPA money runs out
The entire political landscape of Detroit will change with a new mayor, City Council, and Board of Police Commissioners
Historically low voter turnout (24% in 2021 and 18% in 2023) means fewer voices are shaping Detroit's future
The Board of Police Commissioners represents one of the few civilian oversight bodies in the city

What's next

Primary election on Tuesday, August 5, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
General election on Tuesday, November 4, with polls open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Results will be canvassed by bipartisan boards to verify accuracy
State Board of Canvassers must finalize election results by November 25

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle