Pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr. at the Fox Theater Wednesday evening
On a frigid Tuesday evening, the historic Fox Theatre in downtown Detroit buzzed with energy as thousands gathered for a moment that could reshape the city’s political future. With anticipation thick in the air, Pastor Solomon Kinloch Jr., the influential leader of Triumph Church, stepped onto the stage to roaring applause. As Frankie Beverly and Maze’s We Are One played over the speakers, Kinloch’s son Kadin made the heartfelt introduction. Moments later, Kinloch made it official—he is running for Mayor of Detroit, setting the stage for a high-stakes race that could redefine leadership in the city.
Kinloch’s participation in the race is set to significantly change the city’s political landscape. With a reputation for uplifting communities and leading one of the largest and fastest growing congregations in the country, his candidacy signals a potential shift in how Detroiters envision leadership in City Hall. As the head pastor of Triumph Church, which boasts more than 40,000 members across multiple locations, Kinloch has spent years advocating for economic development, social justice, and community empowerment. Now, he aims to translate those efforts into policy at the city level.
For almost twenty years, Kinloch has been an important part of Detroit’s religious and nonprofit communities. His sermons often combine spiritual insight with encouragement for people to take action, motivating Detroit residents to be active in their communities and work towards financial independence. Under his guidance, Triumph Church has done more than just hold church services; it has also started programs to distribute food, provide education, and offer housing support for families in need.
Supporter and Triumph Church Member Michelle Johnson
“Pastor Kinloch is more than a preacher; he’s a problem-solver,” said longtime member and community organizer James Holloway.
“He’s been filling gaps the city has overlooked for years. Now, he’s stepping up to do it on a larger scale.”
Kinloch’s impact goes well beyond his role as a religious leader. He has led efforts to create job training programs that have helped many people in Detroit find stable jobs. His church works with local businesses to improve communities and offer support to families in need. Many believe that these projects showcase how Kinloch would lead—by building partnerships, bringing people together, and tackling important social issues directly.
“We are not waiting on anybody to do it for us. We do what needs to be done,” Kinloch said.
The race for mayor was already shaping up to be competitive, with incumbent Mayor Mike Duggan now running for Michigan Governor, the contenders, including city council members Mary Sheffield, Saunteel Jenkins, and Fred Durhal III and business leaders Joel Haashiim and Jonathan Barlow, attorney Todd R. Perkins, and State Representative Joe Tate (D-Detroit) have also announced their bids. But Kinloch’s entry brings a new dynamic to the race one that could energize grassroots supporters, faith-based organizations, and disenfranchised voters who feel disconnected from traditional political structures.
“The pulpit is not a pedestal to promote one individual, but it is a platform that’s designed to lift an entire community of people,” Pastor Kinloch said.
Some may believe Kinloch’s faith-based background could be both a strength and a challenge. His ability to mobilize a vast network of supporters is undeniable, but he will need to demonstrate that his vision extends beyond church walls and into the complex realm of city governance.
During his announcement speech, Kinloch outlined key priorities that he believes will shape the future of Detroit. Among them is economic revitalization, with a focus on fair pay, small business growth and job creation. He also vowed to tackle crime through community-based policing initiatives and improved youth outreach programs.
First lady and wife, Robin Kinloch highlighted his compassion for others drives him to reach beyond the ordinary and search for the excellent.
“My husband is not just a leader, he’s a dad and he’s a servant at her his passion for Detroit runs deep, and his vision is clear, a safe, stronger Detroit for everyone,” she said.
(L-R) Pastor Solomon Kinloch, First lady Robin Kinloch, Wayne County Prosecutor Kim Worthy
Kinloch also highlighted the importance of education reform, pledging to work closely with Detroit Public Schools to improve resources, expand vocational training, and create mentorship programs. His experience in organizing scholarship funds and youth development programs through Triumph Church could give him credibility in this area.
Housing and urban development are also high on Kinloch’s agenda. He vowed to push for more affordable housing options for everyone regardless of economic status and crack down on blight along with safety concerns.
While Kinloch’s grassroots appeal is strong, he faces significant challenges in his bid for City Hall. Critics argue that his lack of political experience could be a liability, particularly when it comes to navigating the complexities of municipal governance, budget negotiations, and public policy.
“Somebody might ask tonight, what does a pastor know about being a mayor? For 27 years, I’ve been on the front line dedicating my life to building people up,” Kinloch said.
Additionally, Kinloch will have to court voters outside his core base. Even though he is well-respected in the faith community, Detroit has a varied population that includes progressive activists, business owners, and working-class families, each with their own concerns. To be successful, he will need to bring together these different groups and find common ground with them.
For supporters like Lisa Carter, Kinloch represents more than a candidate he represents hope.
“We always have had politicians make promises before, but Pastor Kinloch been showing up for this city for years,” Carter said.
“He’s got my vote.”
As the race unfolds, Detroiters will have the chance to decide whether a pastor-turned-civic leader is the change their city needs. One thing is certain: Solomon Kinloch Jr. has already shaken up the status quo, and his campaign is one to watch.
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