Election Day 2025 is set for Tuesday, November 4, when voters across Michigan will make crucial decisions regarding local leadership and community issues. Polls will open to those who have not participated in early or absentee voting, with significant races taking place in the metro Detroit area. These contests could influence not only the immediate political landscape but also lay the groundwork for the upcoming gubernatorial and congressional midterm elections.
Key Mayoral Contests in Metro Detroit
Among the most closely watched races is the mayoral contest in Detroit, where Rev. Solomon Kinloch, pastor of Triumph Church, is challenging the frontrunner, Mary Sheffield, who currently serves as the City Council President. Both candidates aim to succeed outgoing Mayor Mike Duggan, who has announced his intention to run for governor in 2026. Sheffield emphasizes continuity in progress, while Kinloch is focused on enhancing the success of Detroit’s downtown areas and neighborhoods.
In addition, the Detroit City Council races feature two open district seats and two at-large positions. District 5 candidates include Renata Miller, a resident of Indian Village, and Willie Burton, a commissioner on the city’s police oversight board. Meanwhile, District 7 candidates Denzel Anton Hines-McCampbell and state Rep. Karen Whitsett compete to replace Fred Durhal III, who opted for a mayoral bid instead of seeking reelection.
Races Across Other Communities
The mayoral race in Hamtramck, a small city within Detroit, features three candidates: City Council member Muhith Mahmood, Adam Alharbi, and write-in candidate Lynn Blasey. The current mayor, Amer Ghalib, is under scrutiny due to his stalled nomination for ambassador to Kuwait.
In Dearborn, Mayor Abdullah Hammoud seeks reelection against engineer Nagi Almudhegi. Hammoud, known for his progressive leadership, is defending his record against Almudhegi’s conservative platform, which promises to bring “common sense” governance to the city.
Pontiac will also see a competitive mayoral race with candidates Mike McGuinness and Kermit Williams, alongside write-in candidates Jashon Gilmore, Sabrina Jernagin, and Wendell Woods. In Southfield, incumbent Kenson Siver faces former Councilwoman Sylvia Jordan in a tight race for mayor.
The city council race in Sterling Heights features all six incumbents seeking reelection against a competitive field that includes Daniel Acciacca, Teri Brinker, and Rick McKiddy, among others. In Roseville, muralist Ed Stross is launching a write-in campaign against incumbent Mayor Robert Taylor, whose name is the only one officially on the ballot. Voters will also choose from five candidates vying for three city council seats, although votes for the late Councilwoman Jan Haggerty will not be counted.
For those looking for more information on the candidates and issues, comprehensive voter guides are available. As results begin to emerge on November 4, updates will be accessible on Freep.com, providing timely insights into the election outcomes.
