Rev. Solomon W. Kinloch Jr., leader of Detroit’s Triumph Church with a congregation of 40,000—making it one of the largest African American churches in the nation—has never held elected office. But in a stunning announcement at the Fox Theater before 5,000 attendees, Kinloch declared his candidacy for mayor of Detroit, shaking up the city’s political landscape.

In his first media interview since the announcement, Kinloch sits down with journalist Bankole Thompson for an in-depth conversation about his campaign, motivations for entering the race, and vision for Detroit. Kinloch outlines key initiatives, including expanding affordable housing, implementing comprehensive workforce development programs, and addressing the needs of the city’s most vulnerable residents—issues he promises will define a future Kinloch administration.