Former Detroit mayoral candidate Saunteel Jenkins formally endorsed City Council President Mary Sheffield in the race for mayor, citing their shared commitment to reducing gun violence and strengthening youth opportunities.
Speaking outside Cody High School, Jenkins reflected on her personal connection to the issue, noting that her brother was a freshman at the school when he was killed in 1991.
“To be here standing here today in front of Cody High School, with Council President Mary Sheffield, who also talked often, often about gun violence and youth violence,” Jenkins said. “The tree here to the right of us was planted in my brother’s honor after he died.”
Jenkins said her endorsement goes beyond her own story, emphasizing the broader vision of a safer city for Detroit’s children.
“It’s really about all the babies who are right now in that school learning and preparing for their future. It’s about kids all over the city of Detroit who deserve to live in a city free of gun violence. It’s about all the kids who deserve to grow and reach their full potential,” she said. “It is without hesitation that I stand next to Mary Sheffield and give her my support and endorsement to be the next mayor of the city of Detroit.”
Sheffield, who is seeking to become Detroit’s first female mayor, thanked Jenkins for her support and praised her for elevating key conversations during the campaign.
“Saunteel Jenkins made me a better leader and a better candidate in this race,” Sheffield said. “She has faced unimaginable challenges — surviving domestic violence, overcoming breast cancer, and enduring the heartbreaking loss of her brother to gun violence. Yet through it all, she has continued to stand strong, serving, and leading our city.”
Sheffield said the endorsement represents unity and progress for the city.
“This moment is also historic. In 324 years of our city, we have never elected a woman as mayor of the city of Detroit,” Sheffield said. “Saunteel endorsement is more than just one campaign. It is about women supporting women, breaking barriers, and making history together.”
Both Jenkins and Sheffield called for collaboration with schools, community groups, and city leaders to tackle violence, invest in youth programs, and create safe spaces after school hours.
Detroit voters will choose the city’s next mayor in the upcoming November election.
