Detroit Mayoral Debates Set Between Mary Sheffield, Solomon Kinloch

October 3, 2025

Detroit's mayoral race between City Council President Mary Sheffield and Triumph Church pastor Rev. Solomon Kinloch Jr. will feature two scheduled debates following their top finishes in the August 5 primary election.

Who is affected

Detroit voters and residents
The two mayoral candidates: Mary Sheffield and Solomon Kinloch Jr.
Community members who received concert tickets from Sheffield
Detroit media outlets hosting the debates (WXYZ-TV and Fox 2)

What action is being taken

Two mayoral debates are being scheduled and organized for October 15 and October 27
Sheffield is running a "Mary for Everybody" campaign with Detroit Vs. Everybody collaboration and has new billboards supported by a pro-Duggan PAC
Kinloch is hosting community forums and fundraisers with church members and supporters
Kinloch's campaign is criticizing Sheffield over her acceptance of concert tickets
Detroit Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallet is responding to ethics concerns about Sheffield

Why it matters

The debates provide Detroiters their first opportunity to hear the candidates discuss their visions for the city's future in a one-on-one format
The election represents a choice between two distinct candidates with different backgrounds and support bases
Ethics concerns about the acceptance of gifts raise questions about adherence to the city charter, which prohibits elected officials from taking gifts
The election outcome will determine Detroit's leadership following the Duggan administration

What's next

The first mayoral debate will take place on October 15 at 7 p.m. at WXYZ-TV's Southfield studios
The second debate will occur on October 27 on Fox 2's The Pulse
The general election will be held on November 4

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle