Detroit Mayoral Race Heats Up: Candidates Debate Key Issues

Detroit Mayoral Race Intensifies Ahead of Primary

As the August 5th primary nears, the Detroit mayoral race is garnering increased attention. Last week, four of the eleven candidates took part in a significant debate, bringing forth their stances on key issues.

Outlier Media’s civic life reporter, Briana Rice, has been closely tracking the unfolding contest. She provided insights to Michigan Public’s Morning Edition, speaking with producer Caoilinn Goss about the dynamics of the race.

Caoilinn Goss: Since your last discussion with Doug Tribou, the candidate field has expanded with two new write-ins. Outlier Media has engaged with all 11 hopefuls, asking them a uniform set of 25 questions. How were these questions formulated?

Briana Rice: We’ve developed a “Meet Your Mayor” quiz in collaboration with the University of Michigan, who surveyed 2000 Detroit residents to identify pressing matters. Our aim was to capture voter priorities, such as mental health response responsibilities, immigrant protection from federal enforcement, and more. This approach was meant to push candidates into making tough decisions.

CG: Did any candidate responses particularly stand out to you?

BR: Absolutely. Notably, all candidates endorsed the Right to Renew, which protects tenants from retaliatory lease non-renewals. It was surprising to see a unanimous stance. Additionally, views on immigrant protection and strategies for affordable housing varied among candidates.

CG: Regarding housing, what differences have emerged among the candidates?

BR: Candidates are emphasizing pathways to homeownership and addressing the city’s need for home repairs. Discussions also include developing multi-family affordable housing. The biggest divide is around tax incentives and the role of the Detroit Land Bank Authority, with varying opinions on reform or overhaul.

CG: Transportation remains a hot topic for voters. How do candidates propose to address these concerns?

BR: Residents face long waits for buses, so there’s a push for increasing frequency to every 15 minutes. Improving bus drivers’ wages is also key to retaining staff. There’s interest in expanding the QLINE and introducing electric fleets to address climate concerns and better connect the city.

CG: Safety is another significant issue. How do candidates differ in their approach?

BR: Candidates are split on who should handle violence intervention, with some favoring the police, others community groups, and James Craig advocating for a community-based approach. Mental health call responses also vary, with most suggesting joint police and mental health professional teams, while two candidates advocate for mental health professionals only.

CG: Rising utility and healthcare costs are burdens for Detroiters. What solutions do candidates offer?

BR: While mayors can’t directly control these costs, they can advocate for Detroit at the state level and seek grants, particularly regarding water affordability. Some candidates propose working with utility companies to address these concerns, and Jonathan Barlow stands out for opposing water shutoffs entirely.

CG: Detroit’s nonpartisan primary is scheduled for August 5th, determining the two contenders who will advance to the November general election.