Derek Dobies Announces Campaign for Mayor of Jackson

Jackson, MI — Former Mayor Derek Dobies today announced his candidacy for Mayor of Jackson, launching a campaign focused on building on the city’s progress by growing the local economy, expanding affordable housing, and strengthening neighborhoods so every family can truly feel at home in Jackson.

Dobies previously served as Mayor from 2017 to 2021, where he led efforts to revitalize downtown, expand affordable housing, and reduce violent crime to its lowest level in more than 30 years. He also guided the city through unprecedented challenges, including civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd and the COVID-19 pandemic.

“I’m running for mayor because I believe in Jackson and the progress we’ve made together,” said Dobies. “But there’s more work to do — building an economy that creates real opportunity, making housing more affordable, and making sure our neighborhoods are places families are proud to call home. That means fixing our streets, lowering costs, and continuing the progress we’ve started. I’m ready to step up, lead, and keep moving our city forward.”

After serving as mayor, Dobies went on to win a seat on the Jackson Public Schools Board of Education, where he has been elected by his colleagues to leadership roles as Vice President and Treasurer. Over the course of his public service, he has been recognized as the Michigan AFL-CIO’s Legislator of the Year and Equality Michigan’s Changemaker of the Year, as well as receiving the 2024 Community Impact Award from the Jackson County Historical Society and the Harold White Award for Inclusion from the Human Relations Commission.

His campaign is already earning strong support from community leaders.

“I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Derek and see the way he leads — thoughtful, prepared, and always focused on what’s best for the people of Jackson,” said Pam Fitzgerald, former President of the Jackson Public Schools Board of Education. “He understands how deeply connected strong schools and strong neighborhoods are to the future of our city. Derek brings people together, listens, and leads with purpose. I’m proud to support him for mayor because I know he will continue to put our community first.”

Mayor Daniel Mahoney also voiced his support for Dobies’ candidacy.

“Derek has never shied away from the tough fights,” said Mahoney. “Whether it was leading the city through crisis, standing up for our residents, or pushing forward progress when it wasn’t easy, he’s proven he’s willing to do the hard work this job demands. Jackson has made real progress over the last several years — and we can’t afford to lose that momentum. Derek Dobies is the kind of leader who will keep moving this city forward, and that’s why I support him for mayor.”

This year’s election will also mark a significant change for the city. The primary election will be held on August 4, with the general election on November 3 — the first time Jackson’s mayoral race will take place in an even-year election following the City Council’s decision to align local elections with the federal cycle. Current Mayor Daniel Mahoney, who was elected in 2021, announced in October of last year that he would not seek reelection.

Dobies said he was ultimately encouraged to run by his daughter, along with the support of a broad coalition of community leaders who urged him to step forward following Mayor Mahoney’s decision not to seek another term. Many expressed a desire for stability and steady leadership during a time of uncertainty, pointing to Dobies’ experience leading the city through past challenges.

“At a time when so many people feel the division and partisanship in our politics, I’m proud that this campaign is bringing people together,” said Dobies. “I already have the support of Democrats, Republicans, independents — and leaders from across our city, including business, labor, faith, and community voices. That’s not by accident. It’s because people want results, not more division. Together, we’re building a coalition that reflects the best of Jackson — and we’re going to win that way and govern that way.”

For more information, visit DerekDobies.com.