Kinloch closely defeated former THAW CEO Saunteel Jenkins in the city's Aug. 5 primary to advance in the race, according to unofficial vote results on the city's website. Sheffield collected approximately 51% of the vote,

Voters will decide in November which of the two will succeed popular three-term Mayor Mike Duggan, who is running as an independent for Michigan’s open governor’s seat in 2026.

The upcoming mayoral election presents a pivotal decision for Detroit as it seeks to chart a new course after 12 years under Duggan's leadership. Sheffield's primary victory positions her to potentially become the city's first female mayor, while Kinloch's candidacy brings a voice representing Detroit's faith and grassroots communities.