Detroit Mayoral Race: City Councilman Fred Durhal III throws hat into the ring | FOX 2 Detroit

Detroit Mayoral Race: City Councilman Fred Durhal III throws hat into the ring

The Detroit mayoral race is heating up as more names are entering the pool with the election months away. 

On Wednesday, Councilman Fred Durhal III threw his name in, believing he's the next person for the job. 

The backstory:

He has been a member of the Detroit City Council since 2021 after being a member of the Michigan House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019. 

What we know:

Durhal spoke to a packed house at the Boys and Girls Club of Southeastern Michigan on Wednesday, where he told the excited crowd his goal of building better neighborhoods for all residents.

"This is a city of strength. This is a city of grit; we know a lot about that word lately. But this is a city of, I believe, some of the most amazing people in the entire world," he said. "We have a long way of restoring the promise to our community that we will keep it safe not just now but for generations to come."

In 2024, the city recorded the fewest homicide and crime rates since the 1960s. 

Durhal, during his speech, acknowledged the Gun Violence Task Force and says he wants to continue it.

"This is a city that I love. And a city that I know you love too because you dedicate your time. You dedicate your energy and your focus on improving our city," he said.

He also emphasized enhancing transportation, building a better relationship with the Detroit Public Schools, and giving more jobs to young people.

Meanwhile, Durhal thanked Mayor Mike Duggan for his work but says he's ready to take his place and move the city forward.

What's next:

Durhal joins Council President Mary Sheffield and Councilwoman Saunteel Jenkins in the mayor's race.

The election is in November.

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