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,

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.

Analysts cited former Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick's comeback win in 2005 as precedent for a double-digit turnaround from a second-place primary finish.