Former Grosse Pointe resident Todd Perkins has declared his candidacy for mayor of Detroit in what is expected to be a highly competitive and crowded 2025 election. Perkins, who is now a full-time Detroit resident, owned a house in Grosse Pointe Shores and has children who attended schools in the Grosse Pointe Public School System. His candidacy comes after current Detroit mayor Mike Duggan announced he would not seek a fourth term, and rather run for governor in 2026 to replace current Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who is term-limited.
Perkins, a high-profile attorney, runs a law firm in his name and is known for defending public officials and advocating for black rights, both socially and legally. His prominence in the Detroit community and his extensive legal experience makes him a clear contender among other candidates, such as Detroit council members and state-level politicians.
“I am excited and compelled to pursue this opportunity because Detroit deserves strong and experienced leadership,” Perkins said in a statement. “The committee and my community engagement helped us better understand the issues, identify unmet promises and define unfulfilled commitments that matter most and continue to impact our community. It will also help to define and determine the best path forward.”
